The mission to clean and rejuvenate the Yamuna river has entered a decisive phase under the leadership of Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. As of March 6, 2026, the state government has officially announced that the work is moving forward with both speed and strong resolve. The administration has successfully revived and upgraded 37 Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) to meet the latest environmental standards, marking a significant step towards a cleaner river for the capital.
What major infrastructure changes are happening?
The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has been working aggressively to increase the capacity to treat dirty water before it reaches the river. In the past year, the sewage treatment capacity has gone up from 707 MGD to 814 MGD. The government has set a clear target to reach 1,500 MGD by December 2028 so that no untreated water enters the Yamuna.
To achieve this, a massive plan to build 12 new mega STPs with an estimated cost of ₹7,200 crore has been approved. Additionally, tenders have been issued for 35 new decentralized STPs. These smaller plants will help treat sewage locally in unauthorized colonies and villages, ensuring that pollution is managed right at the source.
How is the government monitoring drains and silt?
Technology is playing a big role in this mission. The government has completed real-time drone mapping of all major and minor drains that flow into the Yamuna. This helps officials spot pollution hotspots and illegal discharge points quickly. Strict monitoring is now in place to stop garbage and silt from choking the river.
- Silt Removal: Over 22,000 metric tonnes of silt have been removed from major drains like Najafgarh and Shahdara.
- Drain Tapping: Out of 22 major drains, 11 have been fully tapped to stop dirty water flow.
- Water Testing: Monthly water quality testing is being conducted at 47 hotspots.
- Strict Rules: Penalties are being imposed on industries discharging untreated waste.
