The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has strongly denied former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's claims that the Haryana government deliberately released "poison" into the raw water supply to the national capital. The DJB clarified that the increase in ammonia levels in the Yamuna River during winter is a natural phenomenon and the Board has measures in place to treat and manage it. In a letter to the Election Commission of India, Kejriwal had referred to the situation as "water terrorism," but DJB has deemed his allegations as "factually incorrect, without any basis and misleading."
Water Wars over Yamuna River: Unraveling the Truth
Background
The Yamuna River, a lifeline for northern India, has become a bone of contention between the states of Delhi and Haryana. The issue revolves around allegations that Haryana has deliberately released pollutants into the river, affecting the water supply to the capital city of Delhi.
Kejriwal's Allegations and DJB's Denial
In the run-up to the MCD elections in Delhi, former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal accused the Haryana government of engaging in "water terrorism" by releasing "poison" into the Yamuna. The Delhi Jal Board (DJB), however, strongly denied these allegations.
DJB clarified that the rise in ammonia levels in the Yamuna during winter is a natural phenomenon, caused by the decomposition of organic matter in the water. The Board asserted that it has robust measures in place to treat and manage the water to ensure its safety.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Is it true that Haryana is deliberately poisoning the Yamuna?
DJB denies these allegations, stating that there is no evidence to support them.
2. What causes the rise in ammonia levels in the Yamuna during winter?
The decomposition of organic matter in the water, a natural process, leads to the increase in ammonia levels.
3. How does DJB treat and manage the water from the Yamuna?
DJB uses advanced water treatment processes, including ammonia removal, to ensure the quality of water supplied to Delhi.
4. Has there been a similar situation in the past?
In 2019, there was a spike in ammonia levels in the Yamuna, which led to the suspension of water supply to parts of Delhi. However, the issue was resolved after DJB implemented additional treatment measures.
5. What are the long-term implications of the current water dispute?
The conflict between Delhi and Haryana over the Yamuna highlights the importance of water resource management and cooperation between states. If unresolved, it could escalate into a serious problem, affecting the lives and livelihoods of millions of people.
Conclusion
The water dispute over the Yamuna River is a complex issue that requires a nuanced understanding of the natural phenomena involved and the varying perspectives of the stakeholders. While DJB has denied Kejriwal's allegations of poisoning, it is crucial to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of water resources. Collaborative efforts between states and the implementation of sustainable water management practices are essential to safeguard this vital resource for the future.
The Election Commission of India has demanded that former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal provide factual evidence for his allegation that Yamuna water has been poisoned. The Commission has given a deadline for Kejriwal to submit the evidence, and warned that if he fails to do so, appropriate action will be taken. Kejriwal has accused the Commission of being biased and has refused to comply with their demands.
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