Foam in Yamuna River:
In preparation for Chhath Pooja, Delhi has faced recurring debates and actions around the toxic foam in the Yamuna River, where devotees gather for rituals.
- The river’s lean flow during winter time reduces the natural dilution of pollutants, allowing them to concentrate.
- The main contributors to foaming are phosphates from detergents used in domestic and industrial activities. These chemicals lead to surfactant buildup in the water.
- Discharge from industries upstream also contributes chemicals that create foam.
- Anaerobic bacteria act on the pollutants, especially as water falls from heights, such as at the Okhla barrage, aiding foam formation.
- The onset of winter reduces oxygenation, aggravating the foaming.
