Maha Kumbh’s Sangam Water Detected With High Level Faecal Bacteria: What Devotees Must Know!

The sacred Ganga River in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj, revered by millions, is battling severe contamination, as revealed by a recent government report. The findings indicate dangerously high levels of faecal coliform bacteria in the water, raising serious concerns as the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela witnesses millions of devotees taking a holy dip.

Report Highlights Unsafe Water Quality

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), faecal coliform bacteria levels in the Ganga have far exceeded permissible limits at key locations. The water quality report states that at Shastri Bridge, the bacterial count reached 11,000 MPN/100ml, while at Sangam, it stood at 7,900 MPN/100ml. These figures are significantly higher than the CPCB’s safe limit of 2,500 MPN/100ml for bathing water. The Yamuna River, just before merging with the Ganga at Sangam, recorded 4,900 MPN/100ml.

Understanding Faecal Coliform Contamination

Faecal coliform bacteria originate from human and animal waste and indicate potential contamination with harmful pathogens. The presence of these bacteria suggests a risk of waterborne diseases, including typhoid, cholera, diarrhea, and skin infections. According to Dr. Atul Kakar, a senior consultant at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, water with such contamination levels is unsafe for consumption and bathing, posing severe health risks to devotees and local communities relying on the river.

Impact on Public Health and Aquatic Life

Experts warn that contaminated water not only endangers human health but also disrupts the aquatic ecosystem. A US-based water research program, KnowYourH2O, stated that untreated faecal matter in water leads to oxygen depletion, threatening marine life and increasing pollution levels. Continuous exposure to such bacteria can lead to digestive, skin, and respiratory infections, making it a pressing public health concern.

National Green Tribunal (NGT) Takes Action

Following the alarming CPCB report, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken cognizance of the issue and criticised the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) for its inadequate response. The tribunal noted non-compliance with previous directives and flagged the UPPCB’s failure to submit a comprehensive action report. In response, the NGT has directed UPPCB officials and state authorities responsible for Ganga’s water quality to appear virtually at the next hearing on February 19.

Authorities Under Pressure to Act

With millions of devotees expected to participate in the Maha Kumbh Mela, authorities face mounting pressure to implement urgent measures to improve water quality. The situation demands immediate intervention, including stricter pollution control measures and enhanced water treatment efforts to ensure the safety of pilgrims and local residents.

The report underscores the urgent need for sustainable solutions to preserve the sanctity of the Ganga while safeguarding public health. As the authorities gear up for the next hearing, all eyes remain on their response to this critical environmental and health crisis.