The Delhi High Court denied a request for Chhath Puja on the Yamuna River due to water contamination. The court cited severe pollution and toxic foam in the water as health risks for devotees. A public interest litigation (PIL) challenged this ban, seeking to allow rituals at the traditional Yamuna location. However, the court refused, stressing the hazardous condition of the river water.

The Chief Justice-led Bench stated that bathing in the Yamuna could cause serious health problems. The court referenced a recent incident where a person fell ill and required hospitalization after a dip. The court explained that over 1,000 designated locations across Delhi are available for devotees to perform the puja safely. These areas have necessary arrangements in place for the festival.

The Bench emphasized that Chhath Puja at the Yamuna is too risky due to severe pollution. Instead, devotees are encouraged to gather at other safe ghats around the city. This ruling came just as the four-day Chhath festival began in the capital. Thousands typically gather on the Yamuna riverbanks to perform holy baths and offer prayers to the Sun God.

This year, toxic foam along the Yamuna, especially near Kalindi Kunj, disrupted the religious atmosphere. Nevertheless, devotees gathered in large numbers to celebrate. The court highlighted the urgent need for improved sanitation and pollution control in the Yamuna. The polluted river remains a major environmental concern for Delhi.

Additionally, MLA Abhay Verma recently laid the foundation stone for a permanent Chhath Ghat in Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi. This project, funded by the Flood Control and Irrigation Department, will cost approximately Rs 53.3 lakh. Verma stated that the new ghat would enhance essential facilities for the Purvanchali community during Chhath celebrations. This permanent ghat is part of ongoing efforts to create safer, dedicated spaces for the festival in the city.