AAP and BJP Exchange Blame as Toxic Yamuna Causes Water Shortage in Delhi

Delhi is grappling with a water shortage due to elevated ammonia levels in the Yamuna River. The AAP and BJP are blaming each other for the crisis. The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has decided to adjust water supply as the Wazirabad treatment plant is producing significantly less water. Consequently, a 5-10% diversion of water from other plants has been announced until conditions improve.

Senior AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj accused Haryana's BJP government of allowing industrial waste to pollute the Yamuna. He stated that ammonia levels have reached dangerous heights, affecting the Wazirabad plant's operations, which is now functioning at half capacity. Bharadwaj criticised the BJP for not addressing pollution from Panipat and Sonipat over the past decade.

Political Blame Game Over Water Crisis

Bharadwaj alleged that industrial waste from these regions has raised ammonia levels in the Yamuna to 3.5 to 4 parts per million (PPM), exceeding safety limits. This has disrupted water supply in many parts of Delhi, impacting thousands of residents. He accused the BJP of using this issue to trouble Delhiites ahead of upcoming Assembly elections in February.

In response, Delhi BJP General Secretary Yogendra Chandolia refuted Bharadwaj's claims as false and misleading. Chandolia asserted that water entering Delhi from Haryana, especially at Palla, meets statutory standards and is clean. However, it becomes contaminated after passing through over 30 untreated drains within Delhi.

Infrastructure Concerns Highlighted

Chandolia also pointed out that the Wazirabad plant's water storage pond is filled with sand, worsening ammonia levels. He blamed Delhi's outdated water treatment infrastructure for the crisis. Chandolia argued that if Delhi's plants cannot control ammonia levels, it's due to the AAP government's failure to upgrade them.

The ongoing blame game between AAP and BJP highlights a significant environmental and public health issue in Delhi. Both parties continue to point fingers while residents face water shortages. The situation underscores the need for effective solutions to address pollution and improve water treatment facilities in the city.