(Feature Image: Dry Ken river beneath bridge at Pandvan in Amanganj, Panna in April 2018. Image taken during Ken river walk by SANDRP & Veditum India)
The controversial Ken-Betwa Interlinking project is undergoing several changes being proposed by central and state governments of UP and MP. Firstly, there are plans to build two new barrages at Pailani and Banda and renovate Beriyapur and Pariksha weirs and Barua Sagar dam apart from renovation of 15 dams and large ponds in Mahoba district. Then, the construction of a 21 km link channel will require 271 ha of forest land.
Similarly, the CM of MP has requested to increase irrigation capacity of Patne-Biarma Irrigation Scheme from 90,100 ha to 2,50,000 ha under the interlinking plan. On the other hand, the CM of UP has suggested inclusion of Hamirpur district in the plan.
Moreover, the Forest Clearance is conditional, with conditions requiring changing in a number of project parameters, including removing the hydropower component from current location within the forest and protected area, among others.
All these changes are not part of the original plans and renders environment, forest and wildlife clearance and manipulated appraisal void. These changes are set to increase the project impacts, costs and benefits hugely and makes it necessary that project must undergo fresh forest, environmental and other clearance processes including preparation of fresh EIA report and conduction of fresh public hearings.
INTERLINKING OF YAMUNA RIVERS
Ken Betwa Linking Additional works To provide irrigation to over 2.5 lakh hectares of land in Banda, Mahoba, Jhansi and Lalitpur, govt has decided work under the Ken-Betwa river linking project under an MoU signed between the govts of UP, MP and the Centre. A govt spokesperson said that two new barrages are being built on the Ken River in Banda and Pailani, respectively. The Rs 2,000 crore project is to commence in October 2025 and should be completed by June 2029. However, this is not part of the original Ken Betwa link project.
The Bariyapur Weir, built in 1906, the Pariksha Weir, constructed in 1910 and the Barua Sagar Dam in Jhansi, dating back to 1700, are all set for restoration. The irrigation and water resources department has been authorised to prepare the detailed project reports (DPR) for these renovations. E-tendering will begin in Feb 2025, followed by construction in Apr 2025, with a target completion of March 2028 for all three projects. These are also not part of the original Ken Betwa Link Project.
As part of the 221 km-long project, a 21-km link channel will be constructed in UP, which will require the acquisition of 271 hectares of land. This project is set for completion by 2030.
Currently, the Ken canal system irrigates over 87,000 hectares of land in Banda, with the capacity expected to increase to nearly 2 lakh hectares. This will include over 37,000 hectares in Mahoba, more than 17,000 hectares in Jhansi and an additional 3,000 hectares in Lalitpur. The state govt will also be spending Rs 1,191.51 crore for strengthening the irrigation infrastructure across more than 1.66 lakh hectares in Banda. This project will commence in Nov 2024 and be completed by March 2028. This too is not part of the original KBLP.
Another project will include the renovation of 15 dams and large ponds in Mahoba, with a budget of Rs 510 crore. This project will begin in Jun 2025 and be completed by March 2028. This too is not part of original KHLP. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/ken-betwa-river-linking-project-fast-tracked-for-irrigation-in-up-and-mp/articleshow/112724108.cms (23 Aug. 2024)
MP proposal not very clear: मुख्यमंत्री डॉ. यादव ने अनुरोध किया कि स्वीकृत केन-बेतवा लिंक परियोजना के अंतर्गत वर्तमान में प्रावधानित दमोह-पन्ना उद्वहन सिंचाई योजना से 90,100 ha सिंचाई के स्थान पर लगभग 2,50,000 ha की पत्ने एवं ब्यरमा सिंचाई परियोजना को शामिल किया जाना उचित होगा। https://www.amarujala.com/madhya-pradesh/bhopal/mp-news-in-principle-approval-on-increasing-the-area-of-irrigation-through-ken-betwa-link-consideration-of-2024-08-29 (29 Aug 2024)
New UP Proposal CM Yogi Adityanath on Aug 12 suggested that Hamirpur district should also be made part of the KBLP. The project includes constructing a 21km link channel in UP that will require the acquisition of 271 ha of land. It will provide irrigation to 2.51 lakh hectares in UP and benefit the districts of Banda, Mahoba, Jhansi & Lalitpur. This is modification of KBLP. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/cm-yogi-adityanath-suggests-including-hamirpur-in-ken-betwa-linking-project/articleshow/112480283.cms (13 Aug 2024)
YAMUNA INLAND WATERWAYS
मथुरा – प्राइवेट पब्लिक पार्टनरशिप माडल पर इस क्रूज का संचालन किया जा रहा है। इसका संचालन एलकेमी समूह की कंपनी मथुरा क्रूज लाइन प्राइवेट लिमिटेड करेगी। 125 सीटर क्रूज में एक बार में 45 मिनट का सफर श्रद्धालु कर सकेंगे। फिलहाल इसे बंगाली घाट से चलाने का योजना है। इस क्रूज को गरुड़ नाम दिया गया है, श्रद्धालुओं को जिस स्थान से क्रूज में बैठाया जाएगा, उसी स्थान पर उन्हें उतारा जाएगा। https://www.jagran.com/lite/uttar-pradesh/mathura-travel-in-yamuna-river-with-garun-cruse-know-ticket-price-and-time-23784983.html (26 Aug 2024)
YAMUNA FLOODPLAIN
Delhi 75% of floodplain is encroached upon DDA now claims that 7362 ha out of 9700 ha of total Yamuna floodplains in Delhi is encroached upon. Is this its way of regularising encroachments?
The data emerged following a survey conducted by DDA, using satellite imaging and drone photographs, on the direction of the Delhi high court. A senior Delhi govt official said that following the directions of the high-level committee, DDA also conducted ground-truthing of geo-spatial maps of the Yamuna floodplains to ascertain the extent of encroachment.
HC has already asked DDA to fence floodplain The floodplain is a crucial part of the river’s ecosystem and important for recharging groundwater. Officials said there are at least four separate cases going on in the high court and Supreme Court related to encroachment and illegal construction on the floodplain. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/75-of-yamuna-floodplain-is-encroached-upon-dda/articleshow/112910533.cms (30 Aug. 2024) ये सारा अतिक्रमण पिछले 30 वर्षों के दौरान हुआ है. वर्ष 1990 तक यमुना नदी के बाढ़ क्षेत्र पर ना के बराबर अवैध कब्जा था. https://www.aajtak.in/india/delhi/story/yamuna-river-75-percent-catchment-area-encroached-finds-delhi-development-authority-survey-ntc-2030251-2024-09-04 (04 Sept. 2024)
Surghat, Banseera on floodplains concretised: CPCB Bhim Singh Rawat, a Yamuna activist and member of the South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People (SANDRP), said this appeared to be more of a formality from the CPCB, than any conclusive action. “The body has simply made its observations but fails to clarify the fact that any concretisation on the floodplains is illegal. These encroachments should be removed,” he said. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/surghat-banseera-on-yamuna-floodplains-concretised-cpcb-tells-ngt-101723138803819.html (09 Aug. 2024) The report added that another casting yard mentioned in the NGT order belonged to DMRC and had existed on the eastern bank of the floodplain between Wazirabad Barrage and the Signature Bridge since 2012. At Millennium Bus Depot construction was done during the Commonwealth Games. The land was previously under the possession of DTC and had been transferred to DDA in 2022. The structures that were part of the depot have already been removed. “The geo satellite images of the site illustrate the floodplain structures in 2021 but were removed in 2022. The roads which were utilised for the movement of buses in the Millennium depot exist at the site,” the report said. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/concretisation-on-yamuna-floodplain-cpcb-report/articleshow/112386952.cms (09 Aug. 2024)“The tribunal on May 22, 2024, had impleaded the respondents and issued notice to them. The status report on behalf of CPCB and an affidavit on behalf of DDA have been filed. NMCG has sent a communication dated Aug 2, 2024, seeking six weeks’ time to file a detailed response and to complete the exercise of examining the comments/observations of DDA. It is unfortunate that though the communication has been sent by NMCG, no one is present on behalf of NMCG to make such a request,” stated the tribunal’s order dated Aug 7. The tribunal’s order pointed out that responses from the DPCC and the MoEF, MoJS and NMCG are awaited. The tribunal has listed the matter for Aug 23. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/ngt-seeks-reply-on-yamuna-floodplain-construction/articleshow/112434536.cms (11 Aug. 2024)
DDA plans RFD near Millennium Park The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) is planning to develop a riverfront project on 25 hectares along the western bank of the Yamuna floodplains, opposite the Millennium Park, extending from a now-defunct bus depot to the DND Flyway, officials aware of the matter said. The project, located between the NH-24 and New India Garden project, is part of the 1,500 hectares along the floodplains that the DDA is currently redeveloping, officials said. The DDA will now hire a consultant for the project. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/dda-plans-riverfront-project-on-yamuna-floodplains-near-millennium-park-101720028853898.html (04 July 2024)
Noida हिंडन और यमुना के डूब क्षेत्र में कृषि जमीन की रजिस्ट्री को लेकर नई दिशा-निर्देश तैयार करने के उद्देश्य से जिला प्रशासन ने शासन को पत्र लिखकर सुझाव मांगा है। इस कदम के पीछे मुख्य कारण हाल ही में उच्च न्यायालय द्वारा दिए गए आदेश हैं, जिसमें कृषि जमीन की रजिस्ट्री कराने के लिए एनओसी (नो ऑब्जेक्शन सर्टिफिकेट) की बाध्यता को समाप्त करने का निर्देश दिया गया था। हालांकि, यह आदेश अभी तक निबंधन विभाग में लागू नहीं किया गया है, जिससे प्रशासनिक प्रक्रिया में स्पष्टता की आवश्यकता महसूस की जा रही है। https://tricitytoday.com/noida/resgistry-will-start-in-flood-area-of-hindon-and-yamuna-in-gautam-buddha-nagar-59891.html (02 Sept. 2024) दरअसल डूब क्षेत्र में अवैध निर्माण को रोकने के लिए रजिस्ट्री पर रोक लगाई गई थी। हिंडन नदी की धारा के करीब तक लोगों ने अपने घर बनवा लिए हैं। बारिश के मौसम में बाढ़ आने पर ये घर हर साल इसमें डूब जाते हैं। https://navbharattimes.indiatimes.com/state/uttar-pradesh/noida/noida-news-registration-in-the-flood-area-of-hindon-and-yamuna-is-not-so-easy/articleshow/113051811.cms (04 Sept. 2024)
YAMUNA FLOODS
Delhi चेतावनी दे रहा इतिहास, सितंबर में आई हैं बाढ़, दिल्ली रहे तैयार दिल्ली में यमुना नदी में बाढ़ का खतरा अभी भी टला हुआ नहीं है। मौसम वैज्ञानिकों और जल विशेषज्ञों का मानना है कि इस वर्ष भी मॉनसून के अंत में बाढ़ आ सकती है। मौसम विभाग के अनुसार मॉनसून सीजन में अभी भी काफी समय बाकी है और सितंबर में अच्छी बारिश होने की संभावना है। SANDRP के भीम सिंह रावत ने बताया कि मॉनसून के तीन महीने बीत चुके हैं, अभी तक यमुना में बाढ़ की स्थिति नहीं आई है। एक बार भी ऐसा नहीं हुआ कि पानी के स्तर ने 40 हजार क्यूसेक के स्तर को क्रॉस किया हो। जबकि, बाढ़ के लिए एक बार में करीब डेढ़ लाख क्यूसेक तक पानी छोड़ा जाना चाहिए। इसका यह मतलब नहीं है कि दिल्ली में अब बाढ़ का खतरा टल गया है। आईएमडी का आकलन है कि मॉनसून लेट जा रहा है। सितंबर में काफी अच्छी बारिश है। आशंका है कि इस बार भी फ्लड के एक-दो स्पैल हो सकते हैं, फिर चाहे वह दो से तीन लाख क्यूसेक पानी वाले हों, यानि हल्की बाढ़ आए। भीम सिंह रावत के अनुसार ऐसा बहुत कम होता है कि पूरा मॉनसून सीजन बिना बाढ़ के गुजर जाए। नदी के लिए यह स्थिति बहुत खराब मानी जाती है। https://navbharattimes.indiatimes.com/metro/delhi/other-news/delhiites-should-be-ready-threat-for-yamuna-there-have-been-more-floods-in-september/articleshow/112960914.cms (01 Sept. 2024)
CWC forecast that the Yamuna water level at Old Delhi Railway Bridge will cross the warning level of 204.5 m and reach upto 204.9 m has proved wrong, water level did not even touch the warning level. https://www.pressreader.com/india/hindustan-times-st-noida/20240814/281676850218443 (14 Aug. 2024)
लोहा पुल के मंगलवार (Sept. 03) रात लगभग 11 बजे यमुना का जलस्तर 204.40 मीटर तक पहुंच गया। यह चेतावनी स्तर 204.5 मीटर से कुछ कम है। मौसम व हथनी कुंड से छोड़े जा रहे पानी को देखते हुए कभी भी यह यमुना चेतावनी स्तर के ऊपर पहुंच सकती है। इसे ध्यान में रखकर सिंचाई एवं बाढ़ नियंत्रण विभाग ने निगरानी बढ़ा दी है। विभाग के अधिकारियों का कहना है कि स्थिति पर नजर रखी जा रही है। अभी खतरे की कोई आशंका नहीं है। https://www.jagran.com/delhi/new-delhi-city-ncr-yamuna-water-reached-near-warning-level-in-delhi-23791303.html (05 Sept. 2024) यमुना नदी में हथिनीकुंड बैराज से 65 हजार क्युसिक पानी छोड़ा गया. पहाड़ी इलाके और हरियाणा में लगातार बरसात के बाद दिल्ली में यमुना नदी का जलस्तर बढ़ने के आसार है. वहीं 65 हजार क्यूसिक पानी नहीं यमुना नदी के खतरे के निशान को पार नहीं करेगा. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/india/delhi-ncr-haryana/yamuna-river-water-level-rising-know-flood-like-situations-will-happen-in-delhi/2413249 (03 Sept. 2024)
Saharanpur नदी के पार गांव सोंधेबांस तथा गाजदीनपुर का संपर्क जिला मुख्यालय से कट गया है। लोगों को नदी पार कराने वाली वाली नाव का संचालन भी सुबह से बंद है। जिस कारण लोगों को अपने प्रतिदिन के कार्यों के लिए हरियाणा के जगाधरी तथा हथिनीकुंड होकर सहारनपुर की तरफ आना जाना पड़ रहा है। https://www.amarujala.com/uttar-pradesh/saharanpur/yamuna-river-in-spate-boat-operation-stopped-saharanpur-news-c-30-1-smrt1014-130738-2024-09-05 (05 Sept. 2024)
Panipat यमुना में छोड़े गए पानी से बुधवार को सनौली यमुना नदी तक पहुंचने पर जलस्तर बढ़ गया। दोपहर बाद 4 बजे जलस्तर 230. 80 मीटर पर पहुंच गया। यहां से चेतावनी बिंदु 231 मीटर व खतरे का बिंदु 231.500 मीटर पर है। वहीं, यमुना नदी का जलस्तर बढ़ने के कारण एक बार फिर से खादर के किसानों के माथे पर चिंता की लकीरें खिंच गई हैं। https://www.amarujala.com/haryana/panipat/water-level-rises-in-yamuna-along-with-it-farmers-worries-increase-panipat-news-c-244-1-pnp1004-123745-2024-09-05 (05 Sept. 2024)
Prayagraj Ganga Yamuna rising The water level of rivers Ganga and Yamuna on Aug 28 continued to swell, giving sleepless nights to residents living in the low-lying areas. The water level of the river Yamuna is rising rapidly compared to its Ganga. Officials of the flood control department admitted that the water level of Ganga at Chhatnag and Yamuna at Naini rose up to 16 and 26 cm in the past four hours only. While the water level of Ganga was rising at a slow pace at Phaphamau, it was increasing at an alarming pace at Chhatnag and Naini. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/allahabad/rising-water-levels-of-ganga-and-yamuna-rivers-in-prayagraj/articleshow/112879046.cms (29 Aug. 2024)
Up & down trend of twin rivers continues After a brief lull, the water level of twin rivers Ganga and Yamuna has once again shown an increasing trend in the city on Aug 20. The up and down trend of twin rivers has left officials on flood department on their toes throughout the day who maintained a strict eye on water level. Officials of the flood control department, however, claimed that water level of both the rivers started rising after additional water was released into river Ganga and Yamuna from the dams. A senior official, meanwhile, told TOI, “Two days back, around 2 lakh cusec water was being released into Ganga from dams.” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/allahabad/twin-rivers-ganga-and-yamuna-water-levels-update/articleshow/112666210.cms (21 Aug. 2024) The water levels of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers have been rising alarmingly in Prayagraj, inundating residential areas in Baghada area of the city. https://www.ndtv.com/video/rising-water-levels-of-the-ganga-and-yamuna-rivers-flood-low-lying-areas-in-prayagraj-823779 (9 Aug 2024)
YAMUNA POLLUTION
Delhi Work on 3 STPs nearing completion Will the Giant STPs perform to their promised capacity qualitatively and quantitatively? Track record of such plants do not inspire confidence. Why no go for decentralised STPs? Bhim Singh Rawat of SANDRP says as long as sewage continues to enter Delhi’s SWDs and eventually in Yamuna, the river can not see an improvement. “Thus it is important to have these STPs operational as the gap between sewage generated and actually being treated needs to be bridged” he said. https://www.pressreader.com/india/hindustan-times-st-noida/20240831/281754159673309 (31 Aug. 2024)
MCD seals 4 illegal jeans dyeing factories The MCD on Sep 1 sealed four illegal jeans dyeing factories in southwest Najafgarh following a complaint that these units were using chemicals that were causing pollution. The now-sealed factories were using hazardous chemicals like hydrogen peroxide, sulphuric acid, formic acid, caustic soda, bleaching agents, detergents, and hydrochloric acid. The wastewater from these units is toxic for treatment plants and harms the river ecosystem. Apart from the MCD, officials from the Delhi Police and DPCC were also present during the sealing operations. Bhim Singh Rawat of SANDRP, stated that the waste from dyeing units contains phosphates, which contribute to foam formation in the river. https://www.indiatoday.in/cities/delhi/story/delhi-mcd-jeans-dyeing-industries-sealed-najafgarh-pollution-police-yamuna-river-2591978-2024-09-02 (2 Sep. 2024)
NGT fines DJB over river pollution The NGT has taken suo-motu cognizance of the matter, highlighting concerns over the pollution levels in the Yamuna and the efficiency of STPs managed by the DJB.
As per NGT, despite notices, the DJB neither filed a response nor appeared before it. This led the NGT to impose a fine of Rs 10,000 on the DJB CEO, to be deposited with the Registrar General of the Tribunal within two weeks. The case involves a CPCB report showing alarming water quality at 38 STPs. The CPCB, in its August 5, 2024, report, highlighted the use of chlorination and ultraviolet disinfection methods at the STPs but noted that their efficacy was not properly assessed. The NGT also criticised CPCB for not taking swift action against the violations. https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/delhi/2024/Aug/22/ngt-slams-fines-djb-over-yamuna-pollution (22 Aug. 2024)
8 STPs out of function The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) submitted the affidavit on the status of STPs in the national capital on August 1. The report claimed that in total there are 40 STPs operating in Delhi, although around eight of these are not functioning. During Aug. 6 hearing several issues were revealed in the affidavit provided by Delhi authorities regarding the STPs during this hearing. The NGT has issued nearly 28 orders to prevent pollution in the river. These include directives for the installation of STPs and decentralised STPs as part of the Yamuna rejuvenation plan. But it is evident that NGT’s orders are not being followed by the Delhi authorities. The affidavit also showed that the STPs are not only fewer in number but also operating below their capacity. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/waste/yamuna-continues-to-receive-sewage-as-8-stps-remain-dysfunctional-delhi-jal-board (13 Aug. 2024) https://hindi.downtoearth.org.in/river/pollution-in-yamuna-many-stps-are-not-working-many-stuck-in-tenders (09 Aug. 2024) The Yamuna suffers the injection of more than 800 MLD of largely untreated sewage along with the discharge of another 44 million litres of industrial effluents.. https://www.telegraphindia.com/opinion/memory-of-water-when-the-river-returned-to-claim-its-course-like-in-wayanad/cid/2044986 (01 Sept. 2024)
Govt to setup 32 OLMS to check river pollution The Delhi govt has started setting up 32 online monitoring stations (OLMS) along the Yamuna river and various open drains to access real-time data on pollutants. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) is installing these systems. These OLMS are to transmit continuous data to the DPCC server around the clock, in compliance with the Central Pollution Control Board’s guidelines and standard operating procedures. The selected bidder will be responsible for the installation and commissioning. After a trial run of 3 months, the company will operate & maintain the system for 5 years. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/delhi-govt-to-setup-32-online-monitoring-stations-for-yamuna-river-pollution/articleshow/112488111.cms (13 Aug. 2024)
Water hyacinth and biomass trigger unseasonal froth TERI and DJB, assigned the task of studying the froth formation and suggesting long-term solutions for this, have identified the presence of water hyacinth and biomass as the reasons for the froth. A team of TERI scientists and officials of DJB and the UP irrigation department, inspected the river on July 26. Neither TERI nor DJB attributed the froth to pollution. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/yamuna-river-froth-issue-explained/articleshow/112386795.cms (09 Aug. 2024)
Rainy August fails to remove river pollution In Aug, the Yamuna showed no significant progress in its overall condition despite the steady rain. The analysis by DPCC indicated that the fecal level of the river had risen, and at some monitoring stations, the DO levels had dropped to zero, even with the increased flow due to the monsoon. The highest fecal coliform level recorded in Aug was 9,20,000 most probable number (MPN)/100ml, a substantial increase from the 1,60,000 units observed in July. These figures highly exceed the permissible limit of 2,500 units. Certain areas of the river did show an improvement in BOD levels. But the condition of the river in Aug, compared to the same month last year, also seems to be worsening. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/august-rainy-in-delhi-but-yamunas-report-doesnt-reflect-it/articleshow/112973974.cms (02 Sept. 2024)
डीपीसीसी की ताजा रिपोर्ट के अनुसार, जुलाई महीने की तुलना में अगस्त महीने में यमुना नदी की स्थिति में कुछ सुधार देखा गया है। विशेषज्ञों का मानना है कि यमुना में पानी का बहाव बढ़ने के कारण ही इस नदी में थोड़ा सुधार आया है। बारिश के मौसम में नदी में पानी का बहाव बढ़ने से प्रदूषण का स्तर कुछ हद तक कम हो जाता है। यह स्पष्ट है कि यमुना नदी की स्थिति में सुधार अस्थायी है और स्थायी समाधान के लिए व्यापक प्रयासों की आवश्यकता है। नदी में प्रदूषण के प्रमुख स्रोतों को नियंत्रित करने के लिए प्रभावी उपाय किए जाने चाहिए। इसके अलावा, नदी के किनारे बसे शहरों और कस्बों में सीवेज ट्रीटमेंट प्लांट्स की क्षमता में वृद्धि करने की आवश्यकता है। https://navbharattimes.indiatimes.com/metro/delhi/development/delhi-yamuna-water-pollution-reduced-due-to-rain/articleshow/112978713.cms (02 Sept. 2024)
यमुना को प्रदूषण मुक्त करने के लिए सात अलग-अलग दिशाओं में काम किया जा रहा है। इसमें सीवेज ट्रीटमेंट की क्षमता में बढ़ोतरी, नालों के पानी को सीधे नदी में गिरने से रोकना, शहरी और जेजे कलस्टर में सीवर नेटवर्क निर्माण, शोधित पानी का फिर से इस्तेमाल, यमुना के कछार में चलने वाली परियोजनाओं और नालों से गाद निकाले जाने का काम आदि शामिल है। इन सभी क्षेत्रों में समयबद्ध तरीके से काम करने के लिए लक्ष्य निर्धारित किए गए थे। लेकिन, जुलाई में डीपीसीसी की रिपोर्ट बताती है कि इन सभी पैमानों पर दिल्ली पिछड़ गई है। उदाहरण के लिए सीवरेज ट्रीटमेंट की क्षमता में 964.5 एमएलडी का लक्ष्य निर्धारित किया गया था। लेकिन, इस लक्ष्य की तुलना में क्षमता में 712 एमएलडी तक का ही इजाफा किया जा सका है। इसी तरह, बड़े नालों से जुड़ने वाले 76 सब ड्रेन के पानी रोकने का लक्ष्य निर्धारित किया गया था। लेकिन, इसकी तुलना में 50 सब ड्रेन पर ही यह काम किया जा सका है। https://www.jagran.com/delhi/new-delhi-city-ncr-yamuna-river-cleanup-project-delhi-lags-behind-targets-extension-granted-23788096.html (30 Aug. 2024)
दिल्ली में वजीराबाद इलाके के जगतपुर यमुना घाट पर फैक्ट्री से निकलने वाला स्क्रैप डाला जा रहा है, जिससे यमुना का पानी तेजी से प्रदूषित हो रहा है. यही नहीं गंदगी की वजह से यमुना किनारे की फसलें भी प्रभावित हो रही हैं. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/india/delhi-ncr-haryana/delhi-yamuna-river-water-pollution-factory-scrap-effect-crops/2414329 (04 Sept. 2024)
Gurugram Dyeing units continue to operate illegally At various times of the day, blue and black currents flow into Najafgarh drain and ultimately to the Yamuna as scores of dyeing units based in Gurgaon channel their toxic effluents into the stormwater drain. Mostly located in Sector 103, Basai and Sector 36, these units give the appearance that they are shut. Locks hang on their main gates and there’s no sign of activity. But gaps have been pried open within the iron gates to allow people to pass. And at the rear are rows of freshly dyed denims hung out to dry. It’s water from here that is channeled into the drain, despite rules that only treated sewage can be released into rivers. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/dyeing-units-continue-to-operate-illegally-in-gurgaon-polluting-najafgarh-drain-with-toxic-effluents-despite-court-orders/articleshow/112698376.cms (22 Aug. 2024)
आगरा सुप्रीम कोर्ट के आदेश पर शनिवार (Aug. 31) को आईआईटी, रुड़की की टीम ने यमुना में डीसिङ्क्षल्टग के अध्ययन को नदी के डाउन से अप स्ट्रीम तक स्थिति देखी. टीम ने विभिन्न स्थानों पर फोटोग्राफी और वीडियोग्राफी भी कराई. टीम को सितंबर के अंत तक अपनी रिपोर्ट सुप्रीम कोर्ट को उपलब्ध करानी है. इसके आधार पर ही यमुना में डीसिङ्क्षल्टग पर स्थिति स्पष्ट होगी. https://www.inextlive.com/uttar-pradesh/agra/agra-news-what-is-the-reason-for-filth-in-yamuna-1725126405 (01 Sept. 2024)
सुप्रीम कोर्ट के शासन आदेश है कि नदियों में पूजन सामग्री और प्रतिमाओं का विसर्जन नहीं किया जाएगा। इसे ध्यान में रखते हुए गणेश उत्सव और दुर्गा पूजा के अवसर पर होने वाले विसर्जन कार्यक्रमों के मद्देनजर आगरा नगर निगम में यमुना किनारे पर अस्थाई रूप से विसर्जन कुंडों का निर्माण किया था। लेकिन अब यमुना किनारे बने विसर्जन कुंड लापता है। नगर निगम की लापरवाही की वजह से कुंडों में मलबा जमा हो गया हैऔर कचरा पड़ा हुआ है. https://www.livehindustan.com/uttar-pradesh/agra/story-supreme-court-orders-no-immersion-in-rivers-agra-s-temporary-immersion-pits-missing-201725518864416.html (05 Sept. 2024)
YAMUNA RIVERS
Uttar Pradesh NGT on pollution in Betwa river: एनजीटी ने 13 अगस्त 2024 को दिए अपने आदेश में कहा है कि जल अधिनियम, 1974 और ठोस अपशिष्ट प्रबंधन नियमों का सख्ती से पालन किया जाना चाहिए। ट्रिब्यूनल ने यह भी निर्देश दिया कि जहां नियमों का पालन नहीं किया जा रहा और बेतवा में बिना उपचार के सीवेज छोड़ा जा रहा है उसके खिलाफ कार्रवाई की जानी चाहिए। विदिशा नगर परिषद द्वारा कोर्ट में साझा जानकारी के मुताबिक गौशाला, चोरघाट और पिलिया आदि नालों से निकलने वाले गंदे पानी का प्रबंधन अमृत 2.0 के तहत किया जाएगा। इसके ट्रीटमेंट के लिए 22.25 एमएलडी क्षमता वाले सीवेज ट्रीटमेंट प्लांट की मदद ली जाएगी। https://hindi.downtoearth.org.in/river/action-should-be-taken-against-sewage-being-released-into-betwa-without-being-cleaned-ngt (15 Aug. 2024)
Rajasthan कोटा शहर का कचड़ा बिगाड़ रहा चंबल की सेहत -कोटा शहर के सीवरेज के पानी के साथ ही औद्योगिक वेस्ट से चंबल नदी की सेहत बिगड़ रही है. प्रतिदिन शहर का 312 एमएलडी गंदा पानी चंबल नदी में गिर रहा है। जबकि मौजूदा सीवरेज उपचार संयंत्रों के माध्यम से उपचार की क्षमता केवल 50 एमएलडी है। इससे चंबल के पानी की गुणवत्ता अत्यधिक खराब हो रही है। नदी के स्वच्छ पानी में दूषित जल मिश्रण से घड़ियाल, क्रोकोडाइल एवं डॉल्फिन सहित अन्य जलीय जीवों का जीवन संकट में आने की आशंका जताई जा रही है। चंबल से अनेक जिलों में पेयजल आपूर्ति भी हो रही है जिससे लाखों लोग प्रभावित हो रहे हैं।
– चंबल नदी के किनारे अनियंत्रित रेत खनन के कारण पर्यावरणीय गिरावट हुई है, जिसमें नदी के किनारे का क्षय और प्राकृतिक प्रवाह बाधित हुआ है, जिसके परिणामस्वरूप कटाव और निवास स्थान का नुकसान हुआ है। इसके साथ ही नदी स्थानीय मछुआरों द्वारा कानूनी रूप से स्वीकृत और अवैध मछली पकड़ने की गतिविधियों से जूझती है। इस कारण चंबल नदी में जलीय जैव विविधता में गिरावट आ रही है। https://www.themooknayak.com/environment/rajasthan-kota-citys-garbage-is-spoiling-the-health-of-chambal-aquatic-life-is-in-danger (12 Jan. 2024)
Delhi Barapullah bridge history Decrepit and unrecognisable, the effects of time and neglect have taken a heavy toll on the heritage structure. While some historians believe that the bridge was constructed in 1612-1613; according to ASI’s book, ‘Delhi and its Neighbourhood’, the year is 1621-22. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/barapullah-bridge-a-lost-piece-of-history-in-plain-sight-101725214774823.html (2 Sep 2024)
YAMUNA FISH, FISHERFOLKS
Rajasthan चंबल में हजारों मछलियां मरी-कोटा में बैराज की डाउन स्ट्रीम में जुलाई 31एवं अगस्त 1, 2024 को बड़ी संख्या में मरी हुई मछलियां मिली है। मौत का कारण या तो केमिकल युक्त टोटा इस्तेमाल करना या फिर चंबल में केमिकल का रिसाव भी हो सकता है। इसके अलावा रिवर फ्रंट के चलते पानी रोकने से भी मछलियों की मौत हो सकती है। आशंका जताई जा रही है कि हाल ही में हुई तेज बारिश के कारण गत रविवार (July 28) को बैराज के गेट खोले गए थे। ऐसे में पानी के तेज बहाव में बहकर आई मछलियां डाउन स्ट्रीम में चट्टानों से टकराने या फिर अवैध मत्सय आखेट में लिप्त लोगों की ओर से कैमिकल युक्त टोटा का उपयोग करने के कारण मछलियों की मौत हो गई। https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.bhaskar.com/amp/local/rajasthan/kota/news/thousands-of-fish-died-in-the-down-stream-of-chambal-133413357.html (01 Aug 2024)
MINING IN YAMUNA RIVERS
SANDRP Blog UP: NGT Com Finds Sand Mining Rules Violated As per petitioner, the miner PC Gupta & Company has been carrying out sand mining on 20.34 ha Yamuna floodplain area adjoining Mandawar village in complete violation of Environmental Clearance (EC). The plea also mentioned that the miner has carried out in-stream mining using heavy machines beyond permissible depth and lease area even during night hours without any replenishment study and compliance report thus violating various orders of NGT and provisions of Sustainable Sand Mining Guidelines, 2016 and Enforcement & Monitoring Guidelines for Sand Mining, 2020. https://sandrp.in/2024/08/24/uttar-pradesh-yamuna-aug-2024-ngt-com-finds-sand-mining-rules-violated/ (14 Aug. 2024)
यमुना में नहाते समय डूबने से दो भाइयों की मौत -ग्रामीणों का कहना है कि यमुना नदी में बड़े स्तर पर खनन होता है। जेसीबी मशीनें काफी गहराई तक गड्ढा कर देती हैं। दोनों भाइयों की मौत भी गड्ढे में डूबने के कारण हुई है। यदि गड्ढा न होता तो शायद उनकी जान बच सकती थी। कई बार प्रशासन को शिकायत भी कर चुके हैं कि खनन को बंद कराया जाए, लेकिन कोई सुनवाई नहीं। https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.amarujala.com/amp/uttar-pradesh/saharanpur/two-brothers-died-due-to-drowning-while-bathing-in-yamuna-saharanpur-news-c-30-1-smrt1014-124697-2024-06-01 (01 June 2024)
Himachal Pradesh Govt amends mining rules The cabinet presided by CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu during its meeting on Thursday (Aug. 08) decided to amend the Himachal Pradesh Minor Minerals (Concession) and Minerals (Prevention of Illegal Mining, Transportation and Storage) Rules, 2015. Under the new provisions, suitable private lands available for mining in the state could be put to auction for the extraction of minerals with the consent of the land owners. Also, as per the new rules, 80% of this annual bid amount will be offered to the land owners.The cabinet also allowed the use of machinery for mineral excavations. The depth of riverbed mining has been enhanced from one metre to two metre. “A provision has been made to allow the removal of sand and gravel from agriculture fields up to the depth of two metres after every monsoon season, however, it will be treated as a non-mining activity,” said the govt in a statement. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/shimla/himachal-pradesh-cabinet-approves-mining-on-private-land-and-increases-riverbed-mining-depth/articleshow/112388932.cms (9 Aug 2024)
MoEF Ban on riverbed mining during monsoons Union Ministry of Environment and Forests has written to all states and Union Territories that no riverbed quarrying or mining operation should be carried out during monsoon, monsoon period as defined by IMD. The Chief Secretary, Uttarakhand in a letter on May 17 requested the Ministry to amend/extend the period of sand mining stipulated in the approvals granted by the ministry for quarrying of sand to bring uniformity in the approvals granted for sand mining in the forest areas, the Forest Advisory Committee stated in its meeting held on July 4. “A similar request has also been received in respect of a proposal pertaining to the state of Himachal Pradesh wherein, it has been requested to extend the period of working till July which is currently allowed till May,” FAC noted. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/centre-bans-riverbed-mining-operations-during-monsoons-101725044926548.html (31 Aug. 2024)
Rajasthan Due to illegal sand mining, as per local people, Khari River (A tributary of Banas River) in Ajmer district has started flowing in opposite direction over a stretch of 4 kms.
YAMUNA WETLANDS, LAKES, WATER BODIES
Delhi Waterbodies only on paper The Delhi high court directed the government to carry an on-ground assessment of the water bodies, following which an exercise was kicked off in the same month by the Delhi revenue department and Delhi State Wetland Authority (DSWA). They have, so far, assessed 1,291 of these water bodies, out of which only 656 were found, and the remaining 635 do not exist other than in maps and records. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/half-of-delhi-s-water-bodies-remain-only-on-paper-shows-revenue-dept-survey-101723484644118.html (13 Aug. 2024)
Waterbodies being turned into waste dump: एनजीटी ने कहा है कि डीपीसीसी की रिपोर्ट में पर्यावरण नियमों का स्पष्ट उल्लंघन सामने आया है। साथ ही इस रिपोर्ट में आर्य नगर गांव में एक जोहड़ और पास के पार्क में कचरे की डंपिंग का भी खुलासा हुआ है। अदालत ने इस मामले में डीपीसीसी, एमसीडी, डीडीए और दिल्ली वेटलैंड प्राधिकरण को प्रतिवादी बनाया है। उन्हें अगली सुनवाई से कम से कम एक सप्ताह पहले हलफनामे के रूप में अपना जवाब प्रस्तुत करना होगा। इस मामले में अगली सुनवाई 29 नवंबर, 2024 को होनी है। इस मामले में एनजीटी के समक्ष दायर आवेदन में कहा गया है कि तालाब को कूड़े व अन्य अपशिष्ट से भर दिया गया है, जिसकी वजह से तालाब के रूप में इसकी पहचान खत्म हो रही है . https://hindi.downtoearth.org.in/water/waterbody-in-delhi-fast-turning-into-a-garbage-dump (21 Aug. 2024)
Budhela residents demand restoration of pond Documents from Delhi Parks and Gardens Society indicate that four ponds were originally listed in Budhela village, including the johar in question. Revenue records also confirm the land’s designation as GM johar (gram johar or village pond) with khasra number 22/14(4-8).
-According to the Wetland Authority’s records, the pond covered 0.6 hectares. In August 2021, the Wetland Authority included the pond in a list of 1,040 waterbodies identified and assigned unique identification numbers. Locals say their calls for the pond’s revival have fallen on deaf ears as the authorities continue constructing the complex. “A new building will only add to the congestion prevalent in our area. It would be better if they just restored the land to its original status as a pond,” said another resident. No response was received from the Sahitya Kala Parishad or the DDA on queries regarding the matter. https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/delhi/2024/Aug/13/delhi-residents-demand-restoration-of-pond-as-cultural-complex-rises-on-contested-land (13 Aug. 2024)
Residents oppose plan to build complex on ‘grave of pond’ The residents of Budhela, an urban village in West Delhi’s Vikaspuri, have claimed that Delhi govt is building a cultural complex on a piece of land which was originally a pond. They want govt to revive the “waterbody” and develop it as a green space. The cultural complex is being built for Sahitya Kala Parishad by Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation. Referring to the report of soil testing of the 4,300 square metre land parcel, which was commissioned by DTTDC, residents of Budhela claim that it was clearly mentioned that the plot where the cultural complex was coming up was actually a “low-lying” area in the past, which had been filled up by govt authorities or the residents. No reaction was available from Delhi govt.
Though the soil testing of the site was done in 2021, DTTDC recently shared the copy of the report in a reply to a RTI application filed by Paras Tyagi, the co-founder of Centre for Youth, Culture, Law and Environment, an NGO. Tyagi is a resident of Budhela village. “Even DDA in its affidavit filed in the high court has accepted that the land where the cultural complex is coming up, belonged to gram sabha and was a ‘johad’ (pond). In reply to a question raised in Parliament way back in 2001, DDA had accepted that it had received complaints of encroachments on the land where the pond existed and it was working to remove them,” Tyagi said. “The irony is that while it is listed as govt land, it is actually a pond, enumerated as one of the city’s 1,040 wetlands by Wetland Authority of Delhi and meant to be notified as such by state govt,” he added. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/budhela-residents-protest-govt-plan-to-build-complex-on-grave-of-pond/articleshow/113040093.cms (04 Sept. 2024)
YAMUNA URBAN WATER
Delhi 10 water bodies at Asola Bhatti to store 80mn litres Forest and wildlife department has created 10 water bodies at south Delhi’s Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary over the past nine months to collectively store around 80 million litres of water, officials aware of the development said. They said that the water bodies have been created at topographically strategic locations where water naturally accumulates. The creation of these 10 water bodies has also been shared by the CPCB in a report to the NGT. CPCB inspected Asola in June, on NGT orders seeking details of the revival of water bodies in Delhi, including at the sanctuary.
The department said the average depth of 10 water bodies, all of which were carved out at Sahoorpur, Satbari and Maidangarhi, is around three metres and the average area is 0.9 acres. Four each have been created at Satbari and Sahoorpur, while two have been created at Maidangarhi. “The water bodies are nearly an acre in size. The largest water body is spread across 1.21 acres at Sahoorpur and the smallest is around 0.68 acres, at Satbari,” the forest official, on condition of anonymity, said. Over time, the official said they also plan to assess the impact of water bodies in terms of groundwater recharge. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/10-water-bodies-at-asola-bhatti-to-store-80mn-litres-recharge-groundwater-table-101724695717737.html (27 Aug. 2024)
For several weeks in July, residents of Peeragarhi village in outer Delhi had to deal with bright blue, foam-laden water flowing from their taps. The community blamed nearby chemical and denim factories for this contamination, accusing them of improperly disposing of industrial waste, which they believe has seeped into the village’s water supply provided by the DJB. https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/delhi/2024/Sep/02/lifeless-river-water-blues (2 Sep 2024)
DPCC fines school ₹ 1 lakh for drilling 12 borewells DPCC has reported to the NGT that it has levied an environmental compensation of Rs 1 lakh on a private school in Anand Vihar, east Delhi, for illegally extracting groundwater. DPCC also mandated the school to install a rainwater harvesting system to help replenish the area’s groundwater table. The tribunal passed an order on July 25, 2022, in response to a plea by resident Amit Sharma, who alleged that the school had violated environmental norms by digging 12 borewells and installing a commercial RO system. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/dpcc-fines-e-delhi-school-1-rs-lakh-for-drilling-borewells-to-extract-groundwater/articleshow/112556351.cms (16 Aug. 2024)
Noida Conduct feasibility study on treated water: NGT to NTPC The NGT has directed the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), Dadri, to produce a feasibility report on using treated sewage water from Noida’s STPs, a move to help reduce the burden on potable water sources and mitigate pollution. The tribunal noted that despite a MoU between NTPC and Noida authority for supplying 90 MGD of treated water, there was no evidence of the authority supplying the water or recovering the cost.
The NGT cited the ministry of power’s circular, dated March 4, 2020, which mandated the use of “treated sewage water” by thermal power plants within a 50-km radius of local body STPs, which is a part of Tariff Policy, 2016. A petition in the matter was entered by a local resident Abhisht Gupta in 2017, alleging that untreated waste was being discharged by authorities into the drains, besides the NTPC was using fresh water despite a pact with authority. Next hearing on Nov 25, 2024. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/noida-news/conduct-feasibility-study-on-treated-water-ngt-tells-ntpc-101724091159337.html (20 Aug 2024)
MONSOON IN YAMUNA BASIN
Wettest August As far as rain in Delhi is concerned, it received precipitation throughout last month, except for the 3, 22, 26 and 31 August. For the first time since 2011, the met department has been keeping detailed rainfall records, the city recorded rainy days for 18 straight days in August. During last month, Delhi received 390.3 mm rainfall. The previous record was 11 days, witnessed in September 2021, August 2012, and August 2013. Other significant streaks include nine-day spells in July 2016, August 2020, and September 2018, and eight-day spells in July 2013 and July 2015. https://www.livemint.com/news/rain-weather-states-delhi-punjab-basmati-rice-monsoon-deficit-11725175471008.html (01 Sept. 2024) Delhi experienced its highest August rainfall in 12 years, with 378.5 mm recorded, according to the IMD. The IMD data indicates that the last time Delhi saw more rainfall in August was in 2010 when 455.1 mm was recorded. The second-highest was in 2012, with 378.8 mm. The record for the most August rainfall in Delhi is 583.3 mm, set in 1961. https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/delhi/2024/Aug/30/378-mm-highest-august-rainfall-in-12-years-in-delhi (30 Aug. 2024)
URBAN FLOODS
Urban Water Sector needs attention The Union Government plan to spend Rs 2517 Cr in 2 years in seven metro cities to mitigate floods is certainly welcome announcement. The key component of the plan, conservation and improving capacity of urban water bodies is noteworthy along with storm water drainage. Does it mean that the River Front Development projects that actually reduce the flood carrying capacity of the rivers will be closed, since one does not expect govt to be working at cross purposes in different schemes.
Similarly, a lot of focused work is required in protecting existing urban lakes, ponds, wetlands and floodplains as all of them are key to tackling urban floods and urban water security. In the longer run all of these along with aquifers can also be used to store tertiary treated sewage. All this will also hugely reduce the urban water footprint on the surrounding rural areas and also help address climate crisis. Will the government take such integrated view of urban water sector? https://sandrp.in/2024/08/26/drp-nb-260824-urban-flooding-plan-welcome-urban-water-sector-needs-attention/ (26 Aug. 2024)
Govt to spend ₹2517 cr to mitigate urban floods Krishna S Vatsa, one of the three members of the National Disaster Management Authority said of the ₹ 2,501 crore, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata would each receive ₹500 crore, while Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Pune will get ₹ 250 crore each. No allotment was made for the capital Delhi, since the cities were chosen based on the frequency of floods and an assessment of resulting losses there, Vatsa said. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/india-to-spend-rs-2517-crore-to-mitigate-floods-conserve-water-in-big-cities-3158456 (21 Aug. 2024)
Delhi Joining dots of drainage debacle Could it be that the numerous underground constructions and rampant large scale paving over the last two decades are acting as underground dams, resulting in unprecedented flooding? (Narayan Moorthy, architect and principal at Kumar Moorthy & Associates, New Delhi) https://thewire.in/urban/a-city-undone-joining-the-dots-of-delhis-drainage-debacle (28 Aug. 2024)
City roads can’t function as ‘makeshift drains’: HC Roads in Delhi can’t function as “makeshift drains,” Delhi High Court has underlined, in a clear disapproval of the failure of civic agencies during the monsoon. In its order handing over the investigation into the deaths of three UPSC aspirants to CBI, HC flagged several instances of 2024 itself where it had to step in due to govt authorities acting in such a “farcical way”. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/delhi-high-court-criticizes-civic-agencies-for-using-roads-as-makeshift-drains/articleshow/112272046.cms (05 Aug. 2024)
Govt draws up ₹400cr plan for desilting 22 drains Under the jurisdiction of different agencies so far, Delhi govt’s urban development department on April 29 issued an order handing over these drains to the irrigation and flood control department as a single agency for better maintenance and operation. While 15 of these drains were maintained by MCD, 3 belonged to NDMC and MCD jointly and 4 were under the jurisdiction of other agencies. According to officials, the respective agencies carried out desilting in the run-up to the monsoon this year, but only 16.4% of the work could be completed.
As per an estimate, the cumulative quantity of silt still deposited in these drains is nearly 115 lakh cubic metres. A senior Delhi govt official said completely desilting these drains may take three-four years, though Delhi High Court has given the deadline of Dec 31 to complete the process. While the quantity survey for desilting is likely to begin Oct 15 after the withdrawal of the monsoon, the preliminary budgetary requirement has been estimated at Rs 404.6 crore. Officials said Delhi govt’s finance department has been requested to make a budgetary provision of Rs 275 crore in the current financial year. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/delhi-govt-allocates-400cr-for-desilting-22-key-drains/articleshow/112878175.cms (29 Aug. 2024) Delhi’s Sunehri, Kushak and Barapulla drains are being declogged, about 5000 tons of debris have been removed in last three weeks. It is not clear where the removed debris is being dumped. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/delhi-news/key-drains-being-declogged-on-war-footing-delhi-lg-101724648927159.html (26 Aug. 2024)
Gurugram ₹429 cr spent in 8 years to address water logging Since the Gurujam of 2016 – a traffic jam so long (20 hours, to be exact) that it got its own name – MCG has spent almost Rs 429 crore to clean up and construct drains in the city. And yet, heavy monsoon rainfall on Sunday (Aug. 11) paralysed large parts of the city once again. Colonies turned into islands, cut off from link roads, societies were flooded and arterial stretches inundated. The upscale Golf Course Road, Narsinghpur along Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway, Rajiv Chowk, and residential colonies Sushant Lok-2, 3, Greenwood City, Mayfield Garden were among the areas under water. All taxpayer money spent on repair and maintenance of the existing stormwater channels, or construction of new drains was washed away, residents said on Monday (Aug. 12). https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/down-the-drain-rs-429-crore-in-8-years-roads-still-flood-spots-in-gurgaon/articleshow/112480669.cms (13 Aug. 2024) -Even though Gurugram has spent over Rs 100 crore on anti-waterlogging measures in the past three years, it has failed to resolve the perennial problem of urban flooding. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/drowning-in-gurugram-100-crore-spent-in-3-years/ (13 Aug. 2024) Despite having spent over Rs 200 crore on road and highway infrastructure in the past one year, the Millennium City still has over 70 cratered roads and junctions, threatening thousands of lives during rains. Gurugram, which has one of the costliest and elaborate road and expressway infrastructure in Northern India, has a majority of stretches in a shambles. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/200-cr-spent-millennium-city-roads-still-riddled-with-craters/ (14 Aug. 2024) NHAI & GMDA blame game over Bajghera underpass flooding https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/gurugram-news/nhai-gmda-clash-over-bajghera-underpass-flooding-drainage-issues-101723485723719.html (13 Aug. 2024)
-The natural storm water drains used to be wide and carried water through their natural contours but presently these drains across the city have been either encroached, or land along these drains have been sold and construction carried out. These drains have also be concretised and boxed as a result of which water does not seep into the ground. Also these drains suffer from waste and illegal sewage being pushed into these channels, which leads to spilling of water into drains. Experts said that large-scale construction has led to extensive concretisation of land in Gurugram, exacerbating the waterlogging issue. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/gurugram-news/crores-spent-but-unfinished-drainage-projects-leave-gurugram-vulnerable-in-monsoon-101723485663695.html (13 Aug. 2024) Another problem, according to experts as well as residents, is that authorities outsource the desilting of drains to private contractors, but there is hardly any check on their work. A majority of contractors who are awarded work orders for maintenance and development of stormwater drains and sewerage lines have links to politicians, a former town planner who worked with the Haryana govt pointed out. As a result, the quality of drainage infrastructure in the city is compromised, the former official said. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/rainwreck-why-is-waterlogging-problem-in-gurgaon-so-hard-to-solve/articleshow/112599728.cms (18 Aug. 2024)
Noida No drainage, parks remain flooded for days after rain Parks in sectors 31, 122, and 52 were flooded last week after heavy rain. Residents complained that despite showers having stopped for a couple of days, the park reamined flooded. They also complained about inadequate drainage, resulting in waterlogging. They are awaiting action from the authorities. According to officials, the authority has assured to take action on the issue. They stated that sump pumps are deployed in several sectors to pump out accumulated rainwater. However, the situation is no different in several sectors including 51, 19, 20, 26 and more. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/noida/noida-no-drainage-parks-here-remain-flooded-for-days-after-rain/articleshow/112457032.cms (12 Aug. 2024)
RELEVANT REPORTS
Supreme Court Deadline for NCR states to fill PCB vacancies The Supreme Court on Tuesday (August 27) directed that all vacancies in the State Pollution Control Boards (PCBs) of National Capital Region (NCR) states must be filled by April 30, 2025.“We make it clear that all States have to endeavour to fill in the important posts urgently. Under no circumstances, we are going to grant them time for filling in all the vacancies beyond 30th April, 2025. https://www.livelaw.in/top-stories/supreme-court-sets-deadline-for-ncr-states-to-fill-pcb-vacancies-asks-caqm-about-steps-to-address-delhi-air-pollution-in-upcoming-winter-267954 (28 Aug. 2024)
SC raises alarm over plastic waste in water bodies – “The dumping of plastic is causing serious environmental degradation and also impacting aquatic life in the riverbanks and the water bodies in the country. Unless concerted effort is made by the responsible authorities with people’s cooperation, irrespective of the efforts to target illegal/unauthorized constructions, the desired improvement of the quality of the water in river Ganga/all other rivers and water bodies in the country will remain illusory,” stated the bench in its August 2 order. The court granted additional solicitor general (ASG) Aishwarya Bhati, who appeared for the Union of India and National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), four weeks to file an affidavit addressing the environmental concerns outlined in the order. Additionally, the state of Bihar, represented through advocate Azmat Hayat Amanullah, has been instructed to submit an affidavit within the same timeframe, detailing the steps it has taken to address unauthorised constructions along the Ganga River in and around Patna.
– Simultaneously, the bench expanded the scope of Sinha’s petition amid growing concern over the environmental health of India’s rivers and water bodies and demanded detailed affidavits from both the Centre and the state. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/sc-raises-alarm-over-plastic-waste-in-water-bodies-unauthorised-constructions-101722970578798.html (07 Aug. 2024) -The plea, filed by advocate Akash Vashishtha, stated that illegal and unauthorized constructions and permanent encroachments on the Ganga floodplain are causing significant waste, noise, and large amounts of sewage. According to the plea, a significant 520 acres of ecologically sensitive Ganga floodplain, stretching from Nauzer Ghat to Nurpur Ghat in Patna, have been encroached upon. The plea also mentioned that a multi-storey building, belonging to Takhat Shri Harmandir Sahib, has been under construction since 2017, with parts of it still being built. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/dumping-of-plastic-is-causing-serious-environment-degradation-sc-warns-authorities-about-adverse-impact-on-aquatic-life/articleshow/112321951.cms (06 Aug. 2024)
Study 81 rivers have high concentration of heavy metals -As many as 81 rivers and tributaries of the country have extremely high concentration of one or more trace and toxic heavy metals, the study titled Status of trace and toxic metals in Rivers of India. by the CWC indicated. The report based on monitoring of samples from 10 river basins of India for the nine toxic heavy metals showed the presence of arsenic, mercury and chromium in 30, 18 and 16 stations across 14, 11 and 16 rivers, respectively.
-As many as 141 (43 per cent) of the 328 river monitoring stations observed during January-December 2022 in India had alarming levels of one or more toxic heavy metals, according to the CWC report. These stations placed in 13 states and 99 districts on 81 rivers and tributaries revealed the presence of extremely high concentrations of one or more toxic heavy metals, including arsenic, cadmium, copper, iron, lead, lead, mercury and nickel. https://www.downtoearth.org.in/amp/story/rivers/81-indian-rivers-tributaries-have-extremely-high-concentration-of-one-or-more-heavy-metals (26 Aug 2024)
GANGA NMCG 9 projects worth Rs 265 cr approved These projects were greenlit during the 56th executive committee meeting chaired by NMCG DG Rajeev Kumar Mital.
Uttar Pradesh: -Establishment of an 8 KLD capacity Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant in Dalmau of Raebareli costing Rs 4.40 crore. Interception, diversion of drains polluting Kali river in Bulandshahar and the construction of 10 MLD STP costing ₹50.98 crore. Construction of an Arth Ganga Centre and the branding of the Chheoki Railway Station in Prayagraj for Rs 1.80 crore. This Rs 81.09 lakh project, proposed by the Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Central University in Lucknow for restoration plan for lower and tributaries in the Upper Gomti River Basin through nature-based solutions.
West Bengal: -Rs 7.11 crore project to install new penstock gates and renovate existing ones along the Beliaghata Circular Canal in Kolkata. Renovation of electric crematoriums in Santipur, Garulia and Chakdha municipalities under the World Bank-funded PBIG component. This Rs 2.89 crore project, also based on the DBOT model, includes a five-year O&M period.
Jharkhand: -Rs 25.89 crore for Integrated Management Plan (IMP) for the conservation of the Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary. Bihar: – Rs 52.85 crore for the Munger Sewerage Network and STP including a 30 MLD capacity STP and a 175-km-long sewerage network, with O&M responsibilities transitioning to the state government after 15 yea₹ https://theprint.in/india/nmcg-approves-9-projects-worth-rs-265-crore-to-reduce-pollution-in-ganga/2246160/ (30 Aug. 2024)
Slow pace of NMCG expenditure -In all, nearly ₹37,550 crore have been sanctioned under various Namami Gange projects but only ₹18,033 crore have been spent as of June 2024, records show. Sewage infrastructure projects alone make up ₹15,039 crore of the latter. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/clean-ganga-mission-head-flags-extremely-slow-pace-of-project-expenditures/article68543219.ece/amp/ (19 Aug. 2024)
Prayagraj Maha Kumbh 2025: 39 untapped drains a big challenge As Prayagraj gears up for Maha Kumbh next year, 39 untapped drains out of a total 81 that flow into the Ganga and Yamuna rivers in the city have remained a big challenge to maintain cleanliness during the mega event scheduled for Jan 14 to Feb 26. NMCG has sanctioned three new STP projects at an estimated cost of Rs 987 crore to significantly increase the sewage treatment capacity of the city and been working with local authorities to intercept and divert the untapped drains.
Currently, the city has a combined sewage treatment capacity of 340 MLD against generation of around 500 MLD. This means 160 MLD of untreated sewage is being discharged into the rivers Ganga and Yamuna. “This is exactly why the three new STPs have been sanctioned as these projects will increase the city’s total sewage treatment capacity to 523 MLD,” said an NMCG official. The new STPs will come up at Salori (capacity of 43 MLD with a of Rs 325 crore), at Rasoolabad (capacity of 90 MLD with a cost of Rs 476 crore) and at Naini (capacity of 50 MLD with a cost of Rs 186 crore). https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/thirty-nine-untapped-drains-a-big-challenge-ahead-of-2025-maha-kumbh-in-prayagraj-nmcg-steps-in-to-fix-the-gap/articleshow/112792825.cms (26 Aug. 2024)
Maha Kumbh 2025: 7 ghats in Prayagraj being revamped The renovation is being managed by the Construction and Design Division of the Water Corporation. Project manager Rohit Kumar Rana stated that the renovation is progressing with a budget of ₹11.01 crores. 50% of the work has been completed, and progress is expected to accelerate once the river levels decrease. The seven ghats under renovation are Baluaghat, Kalighat, Rasulabad Ghat, Chhatnag Ghat, Nageshwar Ghat (both in Jhunsi), Maujagiri Ghat, and Old Arail Ghat. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/others/seven-ghats-in-prayagraj-being-revamped-ahead-of-mahakumbh-2025-101725214255812.html (02 Sept. 2024)
Compiled by Bhim Singh Rawat (bhim.sandrp@gmail.com)
Also see: Yamuna Manthan 08 Aug 2024; Yamuna Manthan 04 July 2024
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In memory of Late Manoj Mishra, Convenor of Yamuna Jiye Abhiyan, SANDRP is publishing monthly Yamuna Manthan from Feb 2024. It’s a compilation of developments related to Yamuna River. This is eighth such monthly report in the series and we will try to release same updates in the first week of every month. The main purpose of the exercise is to monitor, document and research all the issues affecting the Yamuna rivers and riverine people so that all concerned may get updated information on ground realities of the river and its people. All are requested to read, share and give suggestions to improve it.
SANDRP 