Cleansing the Yamuna has increasingly become a political issue rather than an environmental priority. It is alarming that nearly 22 drains discharge untreated sewage and industrial effluents into the river. Wastewater from unauthorised colonies along its banks further worsens the pollution, posing serious ecological and public health risks. The Delhi government can take inspiration from Paris, which undertook a massive effort to clean the Seine River. Once heavily polluted with bacteria and industrial waste, France invested about $1.5 billion over several years to revive the river. The transformation was remarkable, making it suitable for swimming events during the 2024 Summer Olympics. With India aspiring to host the 2036 Summer Olympics, a sustained and scientific approach to cleaning the Yamuna is essential. Beyond enhancing environmental quality, it would elevate national prestige and improve public health. It is time to shift focus from politics to long-term action and restore the Yamuna to its rightful ecological state.
