TERI Develops Strategic Plan to Tackle Frothing in Yamuna
The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), on the recommendation of the Delhi Government, has prepared a comprehensive strategic roadmap to address the recurring issue of froth formation in the Yamuna River. The study identifies major pollution sources, key responsible departments, and actionable measures for effective river rejuvenation.
According to TERI’s findings, froth formation is primarily caused by high concentrations of surfactants from detergents, poor water quality, and turbulence created when barrage gates at Okhla are opened—disturbing sludge and releasing trapped gases.
The report proposes a coordinated, multi-agency approach under a strengthened State Mission for Clean Yamuna (SMCY) to ensure effective interdepartmental execution. It also recommends revisiting the 1994 Yamuna water-sharing agreement to secure minimum environmental flow and integrating the findings into a larger public awareness initiative during the upcoming Delhi Assembly session.
Key Recommendations
Pollution Control & Monitoring:
The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) should expand water testing parameters to include ammonia and phosphate—major contributors to detergent-induced froth. Regular inspection of Dhobi Ghats, installation of micro-STPs in laundry clusters, and strict enforcement of eco-friendly detergent standards are emphasized.
Collaboration with the Bureau of Indian Standards is urged to promote zeolite- and enzyme-based detergents as sustainable alternatives.Infrastructure & Technology:
The Irrigation and Flood Control Department (IFCD) is advised to install aerators in low-flow stretches upstream of the Okhla barrage to maintain dissolved oxygen levels. TERI also proposes real-time webcam monitoring of barrage gates and systematic removal of water hyacinth.Wastewater Treatment Upgrades:
The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) is directed to enhance sewage treatment capacity, ensure compliance at all STPs, and adopt advanced treatment technologies like Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) and Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOP) to improve effluent quality.Decentralized Treatment:
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) should curb illegal discharges and install flow meters at major drains. Meanwhile, DSIIDC has been asked to establish new Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs) and strengthen performance checks, while DDA should implement micro-STPs in unauthorised colonies and JJ clusters.
Expert View
Echoing the sentiment, Delhi’s Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated that the government will adopt TERI’s recommendations to “plug critical gaps and ensure effective implementation for a cleaner Yamuna.”