The Yamuna presents one of North Indias greatest hydrological paradoxes —  abundant surface water during the monsoon, yet growing water scarcity for the rest of the year. Every monsoon, billions of cubic metres of freshwater flow through Haryana and Delhi, spilling over the riverbanks, inundating its floodplains before draining downstream. Within months, both regions face drinking water shortages, falling groundwater levels and recurring disputes over river water. Even in lean periods, the Yamuna fails to retain the environmental flows necessary to sustain ecological balance.