The formation of an interstate coordination committee to oversee the restoration of the Yamuna has been proposed as a key recommendation in the Delhi Development Authority's (DDA) river rejuvenation plan. The proposal seeks to establish a collaborative institutional framework involving Delhi and upstream states to address pollution, improve river management and ensure that restoration measures are implemented in a coordinated manner across the Yamuna basin. 
The recommendation has emerged following consultations conducted by the DDA with experts, government agencies, urban planners and environmental stakeholders as part of the preparation of a comprehensive river rejuvenation strategy. The authority is expected to finalise the draft plan after incorporating feedback received during the consultation process before placing it for wider discussion. 
One of the principal concerns highlighted during the consultations was the need for greater coordination among states through which the Yamuna flows. Since pollution entering the river originates from multiple jurisdictions, participants emphasised that restoration efforts confined to Delhi alone would have limited impact unless supported by coordinated action across neighbouring states. The proposed interstate committee is therefore intended to facilitate joint planning, monitor implementation and improve accountability among participating agencies. 
The draft recommendations also stress the importance of completing sewage treatment infrastructure and intercepting untreated wastewater before it reaches the river. Strengthening sewerage networks, ensuring full utilisation of sewage treatment plants and eliminating direct discharge of untreated effluents have been identified as essential components of the long-term restoration strategy. Authorities believe these measures are necessary to improve water quality and reduce pollution levels in the Yamuna. 
In addition to wastewater management, the plan advocates integrated floodplain restoration, improved ecological conservation and sustainable urban planning along the river corridor. Experts involved in the consultations have recommended protecting natural floodplains, enhancing biodiversity and preventing further encroachment on environmentally sensitive areas. Such measures are expected to improve the river's ecological health while increasing its resilience against climate-related challenges. 
The proposed framework also calls for clearly defined implementation timelines and regular monitoring of ongoing projects. State governments have been encouraged to prepare detailed action plans for pollution control and complete pending river-cleaning initiatives within prescribed deadlines. Periodic reviews and performance assessments have been suggested to ensure that agencies remain accountable for achieving restoration targets. 
The Yamuna remains one of India's most polluted rivers despite decades of conservation programmes and significant public investment. Rapid urbanisation, untreated sewage, industrial discharge and encroachments have continued to affect river health, particularly within the Delhi stretch. Policymakers now believe that sustained institutional coordination and stronger governance mechanisms are essential to achieve meaningful improvements. 
The DDA's consultation process represents an effort to develop a more integrated and scientifically informed roadmap for river rejuvenation. By combining environmental restoration with urban planning, wastewater management and intergovernmental coordination, the proposed strategy seeks to address the multiple factors contributing to the river's degradation. 
If implemented, the recommendations could reshape the governance structure for Yamuna restoration by creating a collaborative mechanism that extends beyond administrative boundaries. The proposed interstate panel, supported by stronger infrastructure planning and ecological conservation measures, is expected to play a central role in guiding future efforts to restore one of northern India's most important river systems.