Yamuna River shows life but faces severe pollution

The Yamuna River flows through Delhi for 52 kilometers, with Wazirabad being a vital spot along its journey. Here, the river still shows some signs of life despite facing heavy pollution from sewage and industrial waste. Fishermen can be seen casting their nets, while families gather at the ghats to pray and perform rituals. However, this glimpse of life is short-lived. Just downstream, the Najafgarh drain empties into the Yamuna, bringing in a massive amount of pollution. The river's water changes from blue to murky black, with oxygen levels dropping to zero, making it uninhabitable for fish and other life forms. This section of the river is often referred to as a "dead river." The Wazirabad barrage plays a crucial role in supplying water to millions of Delhi residents. Yet, the river's flow decreases significantly during the summer, leading to concerns about water shortages. By June, water levels often fall dangerously low, causing disputes between Delhi and neighboring Haryana over water supply. Visitors to Wazirabad can see signs discouraging littering, but the area is still filled with trash, including items from religious ceremonies. This problem is compounded by recent demolitions of illegal shrines, leaving behind remnants of what used to be a vibrant spiritual space. For the fishermen, Wazirabad represents the last refuge for catching fish. However, the presence of native species has drastically declined, replaced by invasive fish that can survive in pollution. Fishermen report that their catches have decreased significantly over the years, turning fishing from a livelihood into a hobby. Recent research shows that native fish populations like Rohu and Catla have been nearly wiped out. Invasive species introduced in the past have thrived in these polluted waters. Wazirabad stands as a fragile oasis in the midst of environmental decline, raising concerns about how much longer it can sustain life before succumbing to pollution.