New Delhi: A thick winter mist hung over the Yamuna on Monday morning, but it did little to mask the disturbing sight of toxic white froth swirling on the river’s surface, a stark reminder of the capital’s persistent pollution crisis.

Determined to make a difference, a group of climate activists known as ‘Earth Warriors’ returned to the riverbank to carry out their weekly cleanliness drive.

Armed with gloves, bags, and unwavering resolve, the volunteers fanned out along the stretch, picking up, segregating, and safely disposing of waste. Their haul typically includes plastic bottles, discarded clothing, remnants of religious offerings, and even medical waste dumped irresponsibly at the site.

Beyond the clean-up, the group also keeps an informal watch on the functioning of nearby Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), which play a crucial role in preventing untreated water from flowing into the river.

The volunteers say they want authorities to intensify action against polluters and ensure better waste management so that one day the Yamuna’s banks can be clean and safe enough for families to spend time there.

Until that becomes a reality, the Earth Warriors vow to return every Sunday, both to clear the accumulating garbage and to raise awareness about the severe pollution affecting one of the capital’s most important waterways.