A large-scale cleanliness campaign along the Yamuna River brought together thousands of volunteers, public representatives, community groups and government officials across Delhi on June 14, marking one of the capital's biggest riverbank clean-up initiatives in recent years.

The Delhi government launched the, "Yamuna Tat Swachhta Abhiyan 2026", across 28 ghats under the theme, "Ek Sankalp – Swachh Yamuna", with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta leading activities at Dashmesh Ghat in Geeta Colony. The drive began early in the morning and focused on removing waste from riverbanks while raising public awareness about river conservation.

Thousands Participate In Riverbank Clean-Up Campaign

According to government officials, volunteers from more than 500 social, religious and community organizations joined the campaign. Ministers, lawmakers, civic officials and local residents also participated at multiple locations, including Dashmesh Ghat, Hathi Ghat and Purana Pul.

Speaking during the event, Chief Minister Gupta said restoring the Yamuna requires both government action and public participation. She urged residents to avoid dumping waste and ritual offerings into the river and described the campaign as a long-term effort rather than a one-day exercise.

Officials said hundreds of tonnes of waste were removed from several stretches of the riverbank during the operation.

Yamuna Restoration Linked To Infrastructure Projects

The clean-up campaign comes as Delhi continues work on a series of Yamuna rejuvenation projects focused on sewage treatment, drainage management and wastewater infrastructure. State authorities have previously announced investments aimed at reducing untreated sewage entering the river system.

Delhi Minister Parvesh Verma said the government is pursuing continuous monitoring and implementation of river restoration measures. He stated that multiple agencies are working together to improve the river's condition over the coming years.

Public Awareness Seen As Key To Long-Term Success

Environmental experts have long identified untreated sewage, solid waste disposal and urban runoff as major contributors to Yamuna pollution. While infrastructure upgrades remain central to restoration efforts, specialists note that sustained public participation is essential for long-term improvements in water quality.

The latest campaign reflects a broader strategy combining civic engagement, waste management and infrastructure development to address one of India's most significant urban river pollution challenges.