Yamuna water quality improves as flood waters flush out pollutants, according to the Delhi Pollution Control Committee’s (DPCC) monthly report for September. The Delhi stretch of the river saw a marked change after heavy monsoon inflows diluted the contaminants.
Officials noted that Yamuna water quality improves almost every year during the monsoon. Extra rainfall increases the river’s flow, which naturally reduces pollutant concentration. However, this improvement rarely lasts long once water levels recede.
The DPCC tested water at multiple points along the Delhi stretch. Results showed better oxygen levels and reduced toxicity. Yet, the water still failed to meet national bathing standards in most locations. Experts believe untreated sewage and industrial effluents remain the biggest contributors to long-term pollution.
Environmentalists said the short-lived improvement should act as a reminder of what a cleaner Yamuna could look like. They stressed the need for sustained efforts such as sewage treatment, strict industrial waste monitoring, and better urban drainage.
While flood waters helped temporarily, the challenge now lies in maintaining this improvement throughout the year. Authorities emphasized that Delhi requires consistent pollution control measures to restore the Yamuna’s ecological health.
