Chhath Puja: MCD Steps Up Ghat Preparations, but Yamuna Pollution Persists

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has stepped up preparations for Chhath Puja, directing officials to ensure cleanliness, lighting, security and other facilities at ghats across the capital ahead of the four-day festival beginning November 13.

West Delhi MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat, MLA Pradyumn Rajput and MCD officials inspected ghats in Sagarpur and Mahavir Enclave on Wednesday. Other inspections were conducted at New Krishna Park in Vikaspuri and Haathi Ghat near ITO.

At Haathi Ghat, officials were directed to clear riverbank waste and coordinate with the Irrigation and Flood Control Department to remove floating waste from the Yamuna using motorised boats. The MCD has also ordered special cleanliness drives, adequate dustbins, separate arrangements for disposing of puja offerings and the use of water sprinklers to control dust. Nodal officers have been appointed in every zone to address complaints.

However, the Yamuna's severe pollution remains a major concern ahead of the festival. Toxic white foam has repeatedly surfaced near Kalindi Kunj, while contaminated river water continues to raise concerns for devotees who perform rituals along its banks.

The situation also recalls the controversy during Chhath Puja 2025, when an artificial pond was prepared at Vasudev Ghat ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposed visit. The AAP alleged that the pond was filled with filtered water for the Prime Minister while ordinary devotees continued to face the polluted river. The BJP rejected the allegations.

The episode highlighted the disparity between special arrangements for high-profile visits and the everyday civic needs of residents. Access to clean water, essential for devotees performing religious rituals, remains an unresolved concern despite repeated efforts to clean the Yamuna.

Chhath Puja will be celebrated from November 13 to 16, beginning with Nahay-Khay and concluding with Usha Arghya.