Understanding the Yamuna: A River in Crisis

Introduction

The Yamuna is one of the most significant rivers in northern India and a major tributary of the Ganga. Originating from the Yamunotri glacier in Uttarakhand, it flows through several states before merging with the Ganga at Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. The river is a crucial source of water for millions, especially in Delhi, but over the years, its condition has worsened due to pollution and mismanagement of water resources.

States the Yamuna Flows Through

• Uttarakhand – The river originates here from the Yamunotri glacier.
• Himachal Pradesh – It receives tributaries like the Tons, its largest tributary.
• Haryana – A major part of the river passes through this state, and water is diverted for irrigation.
• Delhi – The river supplies water to the city but is also highly polluted here.
• Uttar Pradesh – Several cities, including Mathura and Agra, depend on the Yamuna.
• Rajasthan – The river’s water is diverted for use in the eastern part of the state.
• Madhya Pradesh – Some tributaries like the Chambal and Sindh join the Yamuna.

Issues Affecting the Yamuna

• Water Scarcity – Over-extraction for irrigation and urban use has reduced the natural flow of the river, especially in Delhi.
• Pollution – Industrial waste, untreated sewage, and solid waste have made the river one of the most polluted in the country.
• Barrages and Dams – Structures like the Hathnikund, Wazirabad, and Okhla barrages regulate water distribution but also restrict natural flow, worsening pollution.
• Interstate Disputes – The 1994 water-sharing agreement between states like Haryana and Delhi is now under review due to increasing demand and disputes over water allocation.
• Urban Encroachment – Illegal construction and waste dumping along the riverbanks have further degraded the Yamuna’s ecosystem.

Background

The Yamuna’s water flow is controlled by agreements between states, with Delhi depending on upstream releases from Haryana and Uttarakhand. However, with increasing demand and poor enforcement of pollution control measures, the river has become heavily contaminated, especially in Delhi. The renegotiation of the water-sharing pact presents an opportunity to address these concerns and restore the river’s health.

FAQs

• Why is the Yamuna’s water-sharing pact under renegotiation? The decades-old agreement is being reviewed due to concerns about Delhi’s water supply and the deteriorating state of the Yamuna. The renegotiation aims to address these issues and ensure a fair distribution of water.
• How does water allocation impact the Yamuna in Delhi? Water released from upstream states, especially Haryana, determines the river’s flow in Delhi. Insufficient release leads to stagnation and pollution buildup, making the river unsuitable for aquatic life and human use.
• What are the main challenges in renegotiating the water pact? The key challenges include balancing the needs of multiple states, ensuring Delhi gets enough water, addressing pollution, and overcoming bureaucratic and political hurdles.
• How do barrages affect the Yamuna’s flow? The river is heavily controlled by barrages such as Hathnikund, Wazirabad, and Okhla, which regulate water distribution but also reduce natural flow, leading to pollution accumulation in downstream areas.
• What role does pollution play in the river’s condition? With limited freshwater flow, untreated sewage and industrial waste accumulate in the river, making it one of the most polluted in India. This situation worsens when there is inadequate water release from upstream states.
• What are possible solutions for restoring the Yamuna? Solutions include ensuring a minimum flow of freshwater, improving sewage treatment, reducing industrial waste discharge, and promoting cooperation among states to manage water resources effectively.