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Delhi govt plans to redesign Kalindi Kunj barrage to tackle Yamuna froth
The Delhi government unveiled a long-term strategy to address white froth on the Yamuna at the Kalindi Kunj barrage, including a potential redesign of the barrage slope, relocation of dhobi ghats, and stricter monitoring of dyeing units. The plan also includes constructing a new Chhath Ghat near the barrage and coordinating with UP authorities. The announcements were made during a site visit on May 7, 2026.
Why It Matters
Froth on the Yamuna has environmental and public health implications and affects religious and cultural activities at Kalindi Kunj; the proposed measures aim to reduce pollution and improve river management.
Timeline
6 Events
Temporary de-foaming measures and jurisdiction
May 7, 2026
The Kalindi Kunj barrage remains under the control of the Uttar Pradesh Irrigation Department. As a temporary measure, the Delhi Jal Board sprinkles a de-foaming agent on the foam to suppress it.
Chhath Ghat planned near the barrage
May 7, 2026
As part of the revamp, the government plans to build a new Chhath Ghat near the barrage at an estimated cost of ₹100 crore. The UP Irrigation Department will develop the Chhath Ghat, with funding provided by the Delhi government.
Foam formation explained: impact of surfactants in effluents
May 7, 2026
Officials explained that foam forms mainly due to surfactants, such as phosphates, in effluents flowing into the Yamuna; when such contaminated water falls from the barrage height, foam accumulates on the water surface.
Plan to relocate dhobi ghats and monitor cloth-dyeing units
May 7, 2026
The government outlined a relocation policy for dhobi ghats near the barrage and announced stricter monitoring of cloth-dyeing units to ensure compliance with water pollution norms. Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board and Delhi Pollution Control Committee would jointly work on relocation and enforcement plans.
IIT Roorkee to study possible redesign of barrage slope
May 7, 2026
Singh stated IIT Roorkee will carry out a study to determine whether the slope of the Kalindi Kunj barrage can be redesigned to reduce its height and limit foam formation.
Water Minister's site visit to Kalindi Kunj barrage with IIT-Roorkee and DJB officials
May 7, 2026
Water Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh, along with experts from IIT Roorkee and Delhi Jal Board officials, visited the Kalindi Kunj barrage site. During the visit, officials discussed long-term measures to address the froth problem, including evaluating the barrage slope as a major factor in foam formation.