Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta took stock of a major cleanliness drive along the banks of the Yamuna River on Sunday, signaling a strong push for the waterbody's revival. The inspection took place at the Chhath ghat located near the ITO area, where a cleaning initiative was organized by the Culture Youth Foundation.
From Government Program to Public Movement
Addressing the participants, CM Rekha Gupta made a significant observation about the shifting nature of the clean-up efforts. She stated that the mission to clean the Yamuna has transcended beyond a mere government programme and has now evolved into a widespread people's movement. Emphasising the river's profound cultural significance, she described the Yamuna as the eternal lifeline that sustains the region's faith, culture, and civilisation.
Volunteer Spirit and Government Action
The Chief Minister expressed her appreciation for the dedicated volunteers from the Culture Youth Foundation. She also highlighted the inspiring involvement of citizens, youth, and members of the Yamuna Task Force (137 CETF Battalion, Territorial Army). According to Gupta, the substantial voluntary turnout witnessed on Sunday is a clear indicator of growing public awareness and a firm commitment to the cause of a cleaner river, with youth participation drawing special praise.
Rekha Gupta underscored that keeping the Yamuna clean, pure, and free-flowing is a collective moral responsibility shared by all citizens towards future generations, not just a duty of the administration.
Delhi's War-Footing Clean-Up Campaign
Outlining the government's structured approach, the CM informed that the Delhi government is executing the Yamuna clean-up campaign on a war footing and in distinct phases. A multi-pronged strategy is being deployed for the river's rejuvenation, which includes:
- Strengthening the disposal of silt and other materials.
- Enhanced waste management systems.
- Upgraded sewage treatment processes.
- Implementation of biological treatment methods.
- Robust monitoring mechanisms.
Reiterating the administration's support for community-led initiatives, the Chief Minister assured that the Delhi Government will extend all possible support to public participation-based projects aimed at environmental protection. She concluded with an appeal to citizens, urging them to maintain sustained awareness, discipline, and active participation for the ongoing conservation and cleanliness of the Yamuna River.
