Thousands of Indians bathed in the Yamuna River, with contaminated but sacred waters, on the outskirts of New Delhi, despite the warnings from authorities.
Krishnawati Devi, a 45-year-old mother, expressed her belief that the river’s waters are pure and blessed by the sun god, Surya. Despite the bad smell and toxic foam covering the river, her faith in God remains unwavering.
Chhath Puja Celebration
Every November, Hindus pay homage to the sun god with the Chhath Puja ritual, which culminates with a bath in the Yamuna.
This worship, dedicated to nature, has become a reflection of the alarming environmental degradation around New Delhi, a megacity with 30 million inhabitants.
Contaminated Waters and Warnings
The Yamuna, a tributary of the Ganges, is covered with a thick white foam composed of fertilizers and detergents. Despite municipal efforts to dilute this foam, the river remains coated with its white crust.
The authorities unsuccessfully attempted to dissuade bathers, warning them of the risk of diseases.
Despite the warnings, bathers like 14-year-old Deepa Kumari believe that the important thing is to celebrate in the river with loved ones, despite the bad smell and health risks.
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