Delhi residents are bracing for an uneasy festive season this year with the national capital finding itself enveloped in thick smog as the air quality plummeted into the ‘poor’ category for the fourth day and pollutants led to toxic foams floating in the river Yamuna.
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.
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 warn that this pollution surge could harm residents and aquatic life alike, especially with Chhath Puja around the corner.
The city’s metro infrastructure is not spared either, as the Jharoda Majra station near Burari is lost in a sea of smog. The air quality index (AQI) readings from multiple stations across the city show alarming levels of pollution, forcing commuters and residents to navigate through toxic air.
Smog has also engulfed the Yamuna Biodiversity Park, a green space meant to offset Delhi’s pollution woes. Environmentalists express disappointment that such pollution levels have hit areas dedicated to preserving biodiversity, further highlighting the urgency to curb emissions.
As a preventive measure, anti-smog guns are deployed in certain areas, spraying water vapour to curb dust and pollutants. While these measures provide short-term relief, environmentalists argue that systemic changes are needed to tackle pollution at its root.
On October 15, fishermen continue their work along the Yamuna, rowing boats through hazardous foam. Despite the health risks associated with contact with polluted water, many locals are forced to rely on the river for their livelihood. With no flood spells during the monsoon to flush away pollutants, conditions have worsened this year.
A sunrise at Kalindi Kunj paints an eerie picture with the foam-covered Yamuna glistening under the morning light. The picturesque scene contrasts sharply with the health risks lurking beneath, reminding residents that unchecked pollution continues to degrade the city's environment.
Delhi is staring at an environmental crisis, with both the air and water bodies reeling under severe pollution.As the festive season approaches, the need for immediate action to curb pollution has never been more pressing. Without intervention, both residents and the environment will continue to suffer.