Hindus Celebrate Chhath Puja in Polluted Yamuna River

In a striking display of devotion, thousands of Hindu devotees gathered along the banks of the Yamuna River in New Delhi to celebrate Chhath Puja, a festival dedicated to the sun god Surya. Despite warnings from the courts about the severe pollution levels in the river, many participants chose to immerse themselves in the murky waters, showcasing a deep-rooted faith that often overrides concerns about environmental hazards.

The Yamuna River, once a vital waterway, has been described in a parliamentary report as "more of a toxic waterway than a river." This alarming characterization highlights the dire state of the river, which is now filled with toxic foam and sewage. The report indicated that the foam is a result of a mixture of harmful chemicals, including laundry detergents and fertilizers, which have severely compromised the water quality.

On the eve of the festival, a high court order cautioned devotees, stating, "Please understand you will fall sick," and emphasized that ritual bathing in the polluted waters was not permissible. However, many devotees, like housewife Krishnawati Devi, expressed their unwavering belief in the sanctity of the river. "I believe the waters of the river are pure and blessed by the sun god himself," she stated confidently, reflecting a sentiment shared by many who participated in the rituals.

As the sun set, women adorned in colorful saris and heavy jewelry waded into the river, seemingly undeterred by the thick, white foam swirling around their feet. Avinash Kumar, a government employee, remarked, "Chhath is a festival of unflinching faith," emphasizing the emotional connection many have with the river, despite its current state. The atmosphere was filled with music and celebration, as drums were thumped and prayers were offered, creating a vibrant scene amidst the grim reality of pollution.

Efforts by New Delhi's authorities to address the pollution have included the use of anti-foaming agents and nets to remove scum, but these measures have proven ineffective in cleaning the river itself. The situation is further exacerbated by the city's notorious smog, which is a result of burning crop fields and vehicle emissions. Recent reports indicate that levels of PM2.5 pollutants have surged to more than 50 times the World Health Organization's recommended limits, leading to the city being dubbed "Toxi-city" by local broadcasters.

The Yamuna River, which originates from a Himalayan glacier and flows over 3,100 kilometers to the Bay of Bengal, is facing a crisis. By the time it reaches New Delhi, the water is effectively dead, laden with heavy metals and cancer-causing pollutants. A staggering 80 percent of the pollution in the river is attributed to raw sewage, far exceeding safe levels for bathing. In some areas, fecal bacteria levels have been reported to exceed health regulations by 8,800 times, raising serious concerns about public health.

Despite the alarming statistics, many devotees remain frustrated with the lack of action to clean the river. "The river is sacred to us, but all the filth from the industrial belt nearby is being pumped into it," Kumar lamented. Each year, promises are made to restore the river's purity, yet little progress has been made, leaving many to wonder if their beloved Yamuna will ever be revitalized.

As the festival culminates at dawn, it serves as a poignant reminder of the intersection between faith and environmental responsibility. While the devotion displayed by the participants is commendable, it also raises critical questions about the need for sustainable practices and the protection of sacred natural resources. The plight of the Yamuna River is not just a local issue; it reflects a broader challenge faced by many rivers around the world, urging us to consider the balance between tradition and the urgent need for environmental stewardship.