Study on Microplastics in Yamuna River and Groundwater in Delhi

The project 'Study on Microplastics in Yamuna River and Groundwater in Delhi' was commissioned by the Department of Environment, Government of NCT of Delhi (GNCTD), and successfully completed during 2024–2025. This pioneering research was designed to quantify the presence of microplastics (MP) within Delhi’s aquatic ecosystems and to provide a scientific roadmap for mitigation.

Research Objectives and Methodology
The study adopted a multi-scalar approach to evaluate the extent of microplastic contamination across the capital. The core objectives of the initiative were:

• Water Quality Assessment:
  Analyzing the River Yamuna and regional groundwater with specific reference to microplastic concentrations and their impact on overall water quality.
• Source Identification:
  Pinpointing potential sources of contamination across each district of Delhi and along the Yamuna’s course to understand how plastics enter the water cycle.
• Leaching Analysis:
  Investigating the leaching impact of microplastics along both banks of the Yamuna, assessing the transition of pollutants from soil and surface waste into the water.
• Hotspot Mapping:
  Developing comprehensive maps to visualize the variation in MP concentrations, identifying critical hotspots in both the river and the groundwater table.

A Strategic Action Plan
Beyond data collection, the study focused on long-term ecological security. TERI developed a tiered action plan—categorized into short, medium, and long-term phases—to address the identified contamination. These strategies include clear enforcement mechanisms designed to reduce microplastic levels in Delhi’s groundwater and the Yamuna River, ensuring a safer and more sustainable water environment for the NCT.