India’s efforts to restore the Yamuna River have entered a new phase after Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level review meeting in New Delhi and called for a coordinated approach among multiple governments and agencies. The meeting focused on pollution control, sewage treatment, ecological flow, and long-term river management across Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.

Officials said the three states will work under an integrated action plan instead of separate projects. The strategy aims to improve water quality, strengthen monitoring systems, and accelerate infrastructure development along the river corridor.

Major Push For Sewage Treatment And Pollution Control

During the review, officials reported significant progress in desilting drains that discharge into the Yamuna. Out of a targeted 2.857 million metric tonnes of silt, about 97% has already been removed. The remaining work is expected to be completed by June 15, 2026.

Authorities also outlined plans to expand sewage treatment capacity. A total of 129 sewage treatment plants (STPs) have already been completed across Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. An additional 59 STPs are scheduled to be constructed by the end of 2027.

The meeting emphasized continuous monitoring of key water-quality indicators, including Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and Total Suspended Solids (TSS). Officials said accurate measurement of these parameters is essential for assessing river health and treatment plant performance.

Dairy Waste Management Gets New Focus

A new agreement is expected between the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and the National Dairy Development Board. Under the proposed arrangement, waste from dairies and cattle shelters will be diverted from river drains and processed into biogas and organic manure.

Officials said the initiative aims to reduce untreated waste entering the Yamuna while supporting circular-economy practices. Scientific waste management along riverbanks will also be expanded.

Long-Term Monitoring And Regional Coordination

The review highlighted the need for a standard ecological flow in the Yamuna across state boundaries. Authorities were directed to establish project timelines, maintenance systems, and future-ready treatment facilities, including Common Effluent Treatment Plants.

Officials also announced that progress reviews of the Yamuna rejuvenation program will be conducted every 20 days to track implementation and ensure accountability.