Before the 1960s a vast lake existed. This was the Najafgarh Jheel. It covered over 300 square kilometers. The Najafgarh Nallah was a small drain then. It linked the lake to the Yamuna River.
Today the Najafgarh Nallah is much wider. The flood control department widened it. They wanted to prevent flooding in Delhi. This completely drained the Najafgarh Jheel. The lake’s rich ecosystem vanished. Waterbirds and wildlife lost their home.
The Najafgarh Nallah is now Delhi’s most polluted water body. Untreated sewage flows directly into it. This pollution is a serious problem. It harms wildlife and human health. In the less polluted areas however migratory birds still gather. They find refuge in the winter months.
Despite the pollution the Najafgarh Nallah has a surprising role. It helps recharge the groundwater. The wide and deep drain stores rainwater. Farmers use this water for irrigation. They pump it from the high water table. Some even use pipes directly from the drain.
Fishermen also use the Nallah. They cast their nets in the cleaner sections. They need a license to fish legally though. The water hyacinth is a problem. This invasive plant clogs the water’s surface. Workers must clear it regularly.
The Najafgarh Nallah has a history. It was once part of the Sahibi River. This river originated in Rajasthan. It flowed through Haryana before reaching Delhi. The government is now considering renaming the drain the Sahibi River. They hope to raise awareness. They want to improve its condition.
The Najafgarh Nallah is more than just a drain. It is a vital part of Delhi’s history and environment. Its future is uncertain. Development plans may cover it. This could change the area forever. But efforts continue. People work to protect the remaining wildlife and clean the polluted waters. The Najafgarh Nallah’s story is a mix of past glories and present challenges. It’s a story of nature and human impact. It shows us how our actions can shape the environment around us.