INTRODUCTION

oRiver Yamuna is the largest tributary of River Ganga oThe river is a lifeline to a large swathe of north India, generating hydroelectricity, providing irrigation to large tracts of agricultural land and providing precious potable water to the many towns and cities situated on its banks. oRecently, it has been announced that this is one of the most polluted rivers in the India region and is continuing to worsen, despite specific efforts.

CAUSES OF WATER POLLUTION

oThe main causes behind the Yamuna river pollution begins with the large fluctuation of population that is in the region which is continuing to grow and contribute to the problem. This is combined with the amount of sewage and trash that is dumped into the area because of a lack of other systems and flows for the water system and flows for the water system thats is needed. oThere is an average of 3296million liters per day of sewage that is placed into the river.

oA recent survey indicates that two in every five New Delhi residents have pollution related health problems.

IMPACT
oThe pollution of the Yamuna River has a variety of impacts on New Delhis environment. oThis poisonous river is one of the only sources of water for many of the citys inhabitants. oWaste water provides excellent breeding place for mosquitoes and disease causing vectors.

oThe soils in some areas have become less productive due to intermittent discharge of toxic industrial effluents.

oIf the water continues to be polluted at the same rate, the elephants, the forests, and many other forms of wildlife would become extinction.

CONCLUSION
Water pollution in the Yamuna River makes water a life and death issue for millions of people, particularly the poor. The key is to generate public awareness, and from it, behavioural change and the political will to create a better future for water resources in the Delhi region.

It is suggested that the following measures will improve the situation:

oInvolvement of the private sector and water users in water management leading to significant gains in productivity. oReduction of excessive reliance on government for water services.

oMaking the treatment of effluent cost-effective by imposing user charges

oGroundwater recharge projects should be initiated for augmenting available supplies with abstractions regulated to ensure that they do not exceed recharge possibilities. o Integration of water management by linking the private sector, local communities and NGOs to ensure an effective and efficient allocation and use of water for all economic, environmental and social needs.