Toxic Foam in River Yamuna: What Causes It, How It Can Impact Devotees, What Precautions Can Be Taken and More

These photos from the Indian capital highlight the stark contrast between the pure, virtuous traditions carried out by dedicated devotees, and the impure, polluted environments in which they are performed.

But what creates these frothy conditions in one of India’s holiest rivers, and what impact could it have on the devotees dipping into the Yamuna water? Listed below are answers to these frequently asked questions.

What causes the foam in River Yamuna?

Essentially, the release of poorly treated or even completely untreated sewage is responsible for the frothing and foaming of the river water.

Surfactants and phosphates that originate from detergents used in households and industrial laundries, when released in the river untreated, create the foam.

Some illegal jeans-making units set up close to the river banks are also known to dump chemical waste—mainly the substances used to dye denim—in the holy river. High levels of ammonia from other chemical pollutants contribute as well.

Furthermore, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), many sewage treatment plants being non-operational and effluent treatment plants not functioning properly are adding to the problem instead of the solution.

Why is the foaming more evident at this time of the year?

While foaming does occur at various points throughout the year, it tends to be more prevalent during this particular time of the season due to two main factors: the river being in its lean phase and the flow of the water being low.

These factors prevent the pollutants from getting diluted, and their accumulation brings visible froth to the water surface.

What happens if one comes in contact with this toxic foam?

Exposure to this toxic foam can lead to a broad range of issues.

Dr Deepali Bhardwaj, a leading dermatologist, told IANS that such exposure can lead to skin allergies, irritation and many types of skin pigmentation.

Those with a family history of autoimmune diseases like diabetes and thyroid could experience these issues earlier and in varied forms. Also, the industrial pollutants in the water could trigger vitiligo or other autoimmune diseases.

Cancer expert Dr Anshuman Kumar added: “If this water, which has a high concentration of ammonia, is swallowed, these chemicals can cause serious damage to the lungs and lead to gastrointestinal problems and diseases like typhoid.

“Long term exposure to heavy metals like lead, mercury and arsenic may cause hair fall, conjunctivitis and hormonal imbalances.”

What precautions can devotees take before taking bath in the Yamuna?

Experts agree that some precautions are an absolute must if one is to even consider taking a holy bath in the Yamuna waters.

“Devotees should apply coconut oil before going into the river as it forms a barrier for some time and can prevent skin irritation,” said Dr Kabir Sardana, Professor and Department Head of Dermatology at the RML Hospital.

“Avoid wearing synthetic clothes as they leach out allergens. Cotton clothes are ideal. Preferably an old dress will do as that leads to less chance of chemical-induced allergy,” he advised.

What measures are being taken to get rid of the toxic foam?

On Wednesday, November 10, the Delhi government deployed 15 boats to remove the toxic foam from the river. A strong cloth tied between two boats was used to bring the foam to the river banks. Water sprinkling exercises were also carried out to dissipate the toxic foam.

These efforts, however, appear to be temporary half-measures aimed at making the foam invisible to the naked eye.

It still remains to be seen whether the authorities can come up and execute a more stringent and sustainable solution to this problem, and cut off the release of toxic substances into the river water at the source.

(With inputs from IANS)

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