Ahead of Chhath, Yamuna foam a political flashpoint

Days ahead of the start of Chhath festivities, the Delhi government on Wednesday began final preparations at the 1,000 ghats that will be made available for devotees, but the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) hit out at the government over the formation of toxic froth in parts of the Yamuna.

- Paras Singh

At the same time, the formation of toxic froth in the Yamuna is an annual phenomenon during winters, indicating high levels of untreated sewage and industrial pollutants in the river's water, according to experts.

On Wednesday, Delhi minister Gopal Rai, who holds the development and environment portfolios, said, "In various parts of Delhi, preparations are at advanced stage to set up 1,000 ghats. Teams have been formed to look at the arrangement of these venues and the government will help celebrate the festival at a grand scale."

Meanwhile, the BJP noted that Chhath celebrations will be affected by the foam.