In a double whammy for the National Capital Region already grappling with poor air to breathe, pollutants led to toxic foams floating in the river Yamuna. Multiple videos circulating on social media showed vast sections of the river frothing on the surface, the foam gradually dissipated later in the day.

Environmental experts expressed concern about the harmful health effects of pollution and highlighted the city’s deteriorating ecosystem as it continues to grapple with pollution year after year. A political blame game also began with the Delhi BJP alleging that the AAP government in Delhi does not want to tackle pollution.

At Kalindi Kunj, the Yamuna river presents a grim sight as toxic foam blankets its

surface on October 18. The frothy layer not only mars the river’s beauty but is also a serious health risk, with ammonia and phosphate pollutants contributing to the foam.

Experts have urged the government to address the pollution levels in the Yamuna, especially as major festivals like Chhath Puja are approaching.  The pungent foam contains high levels of ammonia and phosphates, posing serious health risks, including respiratory and skin problems, according to environmental experts.

As the Yamuna river in Delhi was seen covered with a thick layer of white froth on Friday with experts saying this poses health hazards for people especially as the festive season approaches.  

Bhim Singh Rawat, Associate Coordinator of the South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers & People (SANDRP), said that normally, the upper segment of the Yamuna experiences significant flood spells, but this year, there have been none during the just-concluded southwest monsoon of 2024.

“This is unusual, as the river generally witnesses at least a couple of low or medium flood spells in this segment every year,” Rawat said. He highlighted that the pollution in the river is a serious concern affecting human health and wildlife near the river.

While the river has some natural cleansing ability, pollution levels are alarming, he said, adding that the white froth which was seen during the monsoon this year, becomes more noticeable during festival times.