Thu Nov 07 03:06:28 UTC 2024: ## Delhi High Court Bans Chhath Puja at Geeta Colony Ghats Due to Yamuna Pollution

**New Delhi:** The Delhi High Court has dismissed a petition seeking permission for Chhath Puja celebrations at the Geeta Colony Ghats along the Yamuna riverbed, citing severe pollution levels. The court ruled that the river’s current state is unsafe for religious rituals.

The division bench, led by Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, emphasized the alarming pollution levels in the Yamuna, stating that allowing devotees to use the river for Chhath Puja would be harmful.

The Delhi government, represented by counsel Santosh Kumar Tripathi, assured the court that the river remains highly contaminated and that over 1,000 alternative sites have been designated for safe celebrations across the city. They have also made arrangements to accommodate devotees at these designated locations.

The court referenced its earlier observations in the Shabnam Burney case, which acknowledged the unprecedented levels of pollution in the Yamuna. Considering this and the imminent start of Chhath Puja, the court decided against passing any favourable orders and dismissed the petition.

The petitioner’s counsel argued for a reassessment of the ban on riverbed gatherings, suggesting targeted clean-up efforts could make the area viable. However, Chief Justice Manmohan pointed out the significant challenges of effectively cleaning the river, highlighting the persistent problem of untreated sewage flowing from unauthorized settlements along the riverbanks. He also expressed disappointment at the lack of political will to address the issue.

With Chhath Puja commencing tomorrow, devotees will now have to perform the rituals at the designated alternative sites across Delhi.

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