Prime Minister Narendra Modi, following the BJP’s triumph in the Delhi Assembly elections, delivered a passionate speech at the party’s headquarters, invoking the spirit of “Yamuna Maiya” and pledging to revitalize the Yamuna River in the capital city. Addressing party workers, PM Modi expressed his commitment to making the Yamuna a symbol of pride and the identity of Delhi.
In his victory speech, PM Modi emphasized the spiritual significance of the Yamuna River, referring to it as the source of spirituality for millions. He lamented the neglect of the river by the opposition party, AAP, accusing them of disrespecting the beliefs and sentiments of the people of Delhi. The Prime Minister underscored the need to restore the Yamuna to its former glory, despite acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead.
Expressing gratitude to the voters of Delhi for their support, PM Modi declared that the city had been liberated from the clutches of AAP, playfully referring to them as “AAP-da.” He reiterated that the people of Delhi are the true custodians of the city, emphasizing the importance of honesty and integrity in politics.
Understanding the Crisis: Why is the Yamuna River Polluted?
The Yamuna River, a lifeline for millions of people, is currently facing a severe pollution crisis, especially in the vicinity of Delhi. Nearly 80% of the pollution in the river is attributed to activities in the nation’s capital. Shockingly high levels of faecal coliform counts, indicative of untreated sewage, have been recorded, far exceeding safe limits.
Reports suggest that approximately 800 million liters of untreated sewage and 44 million liters of industrial effluents are discharged into the Yamuna on a daily basis. While efforts have been made to increase sewage treatment capacity in Delhi, a significant amount of wastewater still finds its way into the river untreated, exacerbating the pollution levels.
As the Yamuna flows through Delhi, the pollution levels intensify drastically, with biological oxygen demand (BOD) levels soaring to alarming levels. This poses a serious threat to the river’s ecosystem and the health of those dependent on it for various activities.
The Political Ripples: Why Yamuna Became the Center of Delhi’s Election Campaign?
PM Modi’s focus on the Yamuna River in his victory speech holds significant meaning, particularly in light of recent controversies surrounding the river. Just weeks before the elections, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal had accused the BJP in Haryana of contaminating the Yamuna water being supplied to Delhi, a claim vehemently denied by PM Modi.
The Prime Minister denounced Kejriwal’s allegations as “disgusting” and defended the integrity of the water supply from Haryana. He questioned the logic behind poisoning water that would eventually be consumed by their own relatives, including the Prime Minister himself. PM Modi even mentioned that he had been drinking the Yamuna water for over a decade, underscoring his confidence in its safety.
In conclusion, PM Modi’s vow to revitalize the Yamuna River and restore its glory as the identity of Delhi reflects a broader commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. The challenges ahead are formidable, but with strong resolve and concerted efforts, the Yamuna may once again flow as a pristine symbol of nature’s beauty and vitality.
