Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has declared the Yamuna River's waters transformed, making them habitable for aquatic life ahead of the Chhath Puja celebrations. This marks a pivotal shift from years of pollution woes that had rendered the river toxic, affecting millions who rely on it for cultural and daily needs.
During her inspection at Kalindi Kunj Chhath Ghat on Thursday, accompanied by Minister Kapil Mishra, Gupta emphasized the ongoing cleanup efforts spearheaded by the current administration. "This water is now in such a condition that aquatic creatures can live very well in it, whereas earlier, even a mosquito could not thrive in this water. Today, this water is suitable for our aquatic life... This is Delhi's achievement and work is continuously ongoing in this direction," she told ANI. The CM's remarks underscore a multi-year initiative involving advanced sewage treatment plants, industrial effluent controls, and community-driven conservation programs that have gradually reduced foam and foul odors plaguing the river.
Mishra echoed the sentiment, revealing plans for a grand Chhath Puja and criticizing past governance. "We are preparing for a grand Chhath Puja. Until last year, there was a ban on Chhath Puja in the Yamuna. When we sought information, there was no such court order. The Kejriwal government lied to the people of Purvanchal. This time, a grand Chhath Puja will be organised on the banks of the Yamuna. Arrangements for Chhath Puja are being made at 1,300 ghats. The Chief Minister herself is monitoring it. We are building modern Chhath ghats everywhere," he stated. These modern ghats include enhanced facilities like lighting, security, and sanitation to ensure a safe and festive experience for the large Purvanchali community in Delhi.
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The four-day Chhath festival, dedicated to the Sun God and observed primarily by devotees from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, kicks off with Nahay Khay on October 25, a day of ritual bathing and simple meals. It continues with Kharna on October 26, involving fasting and evening prayers, followed by offerings to the setting sun (Sandhya Arghya) on October 27, and to the rising sun (Usha Arghya) on October 28, culminating in the breaking of the fast. This year's events are expected to draw massive crowds, boosted by the river's improved state.
In related news, Gupta welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to ease firecracker restrictions for Diwali, aligning with the festive season's environmental challenges. "It is very important to strike a balance between traditions and environment. I thank the Supreme Court for issuing this order. This decision honours the sentiments of the people of Delhi. I assure you that the people of Delhi and the government will keep the environment safe while we celebrate this festival. I express heartfelt thanks to the Supreme Court," she said, highlighting the government's commitment to eco-friendly celebrations.
The apex court, in a bench led by Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandra, permitted the sale of green firecrackers—those with reduced emissions and no harmful chemicals like barium—from October 18 to 20. Bursting is allowed only between 6-7 am and 8-10 pm on the eve and day of Diwali, aiming to curb air pollution spikes in the already smog-prone Delhi-NCR. This relaxation is on a trial basis, with the court monitoring compliance and potential impacts, balancing cultural practices with public health amid rising AQI concerns during winter festivals.
As Delhi gears up for these twin celebrations, the Yamuna's revival and regulatory tweaks signal a broader push toward sustainable urban living, though experts warn that long-term vigilance is key to preventing setbacks from unchecked pollution sources.
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