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A report submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has revealed alarming levels of faecal coliform bacteria in the waters of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers at Prayagraj, coinciding with the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela. This contamination poses serious health risks to the millions of devotees participating in ritual baths during the festival.
Findings of the CPCB Report
The CPCB’s analysis, based on water samples collected between January 12 and 19, 2025, indicates that faecal coliform levels have escalated to 700,000 Most Probable Number (MPN) per 100 milliliters in the Ganga and 330,000 MPN/100 ml in the Yamuna. These figures far exceed the permissible limit of 500 MPN/100 ml for safe bathing water. The report attributes this surge to the massive influx of pilgrims during the Mahakumbh, leading to increased human and animal waste entering the rivers.
Experts have warned that such high contamination levels make the river water unfit for bathing, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases. Factors contributing to the pollution include inadequate sanitation infrastructure, direct discharge of untreated sewage, and improper disposal of waste. Despite prior preparations, authorities have struggled to manage the enormous waste generated by the millions of visitors flocking to Prayagraj for the religious gathering.
NGT’s Response and Directives
In light of these findings, the NGT has criticized the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) for failing to submit a comprehensive action plan to address the pollution, as previously directed. The tribunal has summoned the UPPCB’s member secretary and other state officials to provide explanations and present a remedial strategy in the upcoming hearing. The NGT also stressed that timely intervention is necessary to prevent further environmental degradation.
The tribunal has sought immediate corrective measures, including stricter sewage management, real-time water quality monitoring, and improved waste treatment facilities near the riverbanks. Environmentalists have backed these directives, stating that previous efforts to clean the Ganga under various government programs have not adequately addressed the recurring problem of faecal contamination.
State Government’s Position
Contradicting the CPCB’s report, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has asserted that the water quality at the Sangam is suitable for bathing and even for ritual consumption (aachman). He emphasized ongoing efforts to monitor and maintain water standards, suggesting that reports of contamination are attempts to discredit the event. The Chief Minister further stated that authorities have taken significant steps to prevent pollution, including sewage treatment upgrades and solid waste management initiatives.
Government officials have highlighted extensive cleaning drives and surveillance measures undertaken in the lead-up to Mahakumbh. They argue that independent water testing at certain points has shown acceptable coliform levels, raising questions about variations in test results. However, public health experts have urged caution, advising devotees to be aware of potential health risks associated with direct exposure to contaminated water.
Public Health Implications
The presence of elevated faecal coliform levels indicates significant contamination by human and animal waste, which can lead to waterborne diseases such as dysentery, cholera, and gastroenteritis. The convergence of millions of pilgrims amplifies the urgency for immediate remedial measures to safeguard public health.
Environmental experts and public health advocates are urging the implementation of stringent waste management protocols, enhanced sewage treatment facilities, and continuous water quality monitoring to mitigate the contamination. Ensuring the safety of devotees and preserving the sanctity of the rivers necessitate collaborative efforts from governmental agencies, religious organizations, and the community at large.
Addressing these challenges promptly is essential to prevent potential health crises and to uphold the cultural and spiritual significance of the Maha Kumbh Mela.
References:
https://cpcb.nic.in/ngrba/reports/Report_5.pdf
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