From a stage of food insufficiency, the country has now attained self-sufficiency. Food and milk are available in adequate quantities. However, affordability remains a major concern, resulting in a lack of nutritional security. Malnutrition among children continues to be a serious issue.
While this situation persists on one side, on the other, food and milk products are being wasted through ritual practices, such as pouring them into rivers. These offerings neither benefit anyone nor serve any constructive purpose. Instead, they contribute significantly to environmental degradation and pose serious health hazards.
Recently, such wastage came to light at the Yamuna ghat in Kalindi Kunj. A thick layer of toxic froth resurfaced after devotees poured large quantities of ghee into the river. Pollution levels have worsened compared to those recorded before the Chhath festival. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee tested the impact of these practices, and the findings were alarming.
Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), a key indicator of river health, has a prescribed safe limit of 3 mg per litre. However, samples revealed levels of 25 mg per litre at ITO Bridge, 24 mg per litre at ISBT Bridge, and 17 mg per litre at Okhla Barrage—figures that are highly detrimental to aquatic life.
Another critical parameter, faecal coliform bacteria (which indicate sewage contamination), was recorded at 92,000 MPN at ISBT Bridge, 54,000 MPN at Nizamuddin Bridge, and 35,000 MPN at ITO Bridge. These figures far exceed the permissible limit of 2,500 units per 100 ml set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Despite prohibitions issued by the CPCB and the National Green Tribunal (NGT), enforcement remains weak. Like all rivers, the Yamuna’s ecological balance must be preserved. Immediate and effective action is essential to prevent further environmental damage and potential health crises.
Can such rituals not be reformed? Is it not possible to adopt alternative ways to express devotion without causing harm to the environment?
Tailpiece:Another incident of wasteful ritual was reported in Madhya Pradesh, where 11,000 litres of milk were poured into the Narmada River. Why can’t such practices evolve into forms that are compatible with human welfare and environmental sustainability? Is it not time to design rituals that avoid food wastage and environmental pollution altogether?
