During October and November, Delhi struggles with intense air and water pollution, with the Yamuna River frothing prominently. The froth, caused by pollutants and untreated sewage, worsens after the monsoon rains and affects both water quality and air pollution in the city.

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• The Yamuna froths due to pollutants, untreated sewage.
• IIT Kanpur study identifies detergents and phosphates as primary culprits.
• 3.5 billion liters of sewage enter the river daily; only 35-40% treated.
• Froth stabilizes in winter as water levels drop and temperatures cool.
• Surfactants reduce surface tension, causing foam formation.
• Filamentous bacteria contribute to froth by releasing surfactants.
• Pollutants from industries in Uttar Pradesh add to the problem.
• Froth emits Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), contributing to air pollution.
• These VOCs, when airborne, worsen smog and Delhi’s air quality.
• Froth impacts aquatic life, causing oxygen depletion and disrupting ecosystems.