The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has reported that water quality in multiple locations across Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has failed to meet the primary bathing standards during the ongoing Maha Kumbh due to excessive faecal coliform levels. The findings, presented to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Monday, raise serious concerns about water contamination and public health risks.
What is Faecal Coliform?
Faecal coliform bacteria are microorganisms that naturally exist in the intestines of humans and animals. Their presence in water suggests contamination from sewage or animal waste. While not all coliform bacteria are harmful, their detection can indicate the presence of dangerous pathogens such as viruses, Salmonella, and E. coli.
Rising Faecal Contamination in Ganga and Yamuna
A panel led by NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, alongside Judicial Member Justice Sudhir Agarwal and Expert Member A Senthil Vel, examined the steps taken to prevent sewage discharge into the Ganga and Yamuna rivers in Prayagraj. The tribunal reviewed a CPCB report dated February 3, which highlighted multiple violations and non-compliance issues.
According to the report, the permissible limit for faecal coliform in water is 2,500 units per 100 ml. However, CPCB found that water at various monitoring sites failed to meet primary bathing quality standards.
“The water quality of the river did not conform to bathing standards due to excessive faecal coliform at all tested locations. Given the large number of people taking ritual dips during the Mahakumbh Mela, especially on auspicious bathing days, the concentration of faecal bacteria in the river has increased significantly,” the report stated.
High Bacteria Levels Detected Across Multiple Locations
The tribunal also noted that the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) failed to submit a detailed action report, as previously directed. Instead, it only provided a cover letter with water quality test results.
“Even after reviewing the documents attached to the letter dated January 28, 2025, from the central laboratory of UPPCB, it is evident that high levels of faecal and total coliform bacteria have been detected in multiple locations,” the tribunal remarked.
The NGT granted the counsel representing the Uttar Pradesh government one day to examine and respond to the report. Additionally, the tribunal ordered the UPPCB Member Secretary and state officials responsible for monitoring Ganga’s water quality in Prayagraj to attend the next virtual hearing on February 19.
Concerns Over Unsafe Bathing Conditions
Speaking to the media, Jyotish Peeth Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati pointed out that concerns about water quality had been raised even before the Kumbh Mela began.
“The NGT had already highlighted that the water quality of the Ganga and Yamuna was unsuitable for bathing. Directions were issued regarding the prevention of sewage inflow into the river. Despite this, 40-50 crore people are bathing in the river, with large-scale promotions happening worldwide. However, the most basic necessity—clean water for bathing—is not being ensured,” he said.
Health Issues Among Devotees Returning from Kumbh
Doctors are reporting an increase in health issues among people returning from the Kumbh Mela. A Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Delhi, told news agency ANI that cases of gastrointestinal infections and fevers have been observed.
“We are seeing some people returning from the Kumbh with medical issues. Given the enormous number of devotees taking dips in the river, this was expected. However, compared to the overall footfall, the number of cases remains relatively low. This suggests that control measures are largely effective,” he said.
Many cases involve gastroenteritis, with symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. The consultant noted that most fevers reported are likely of viral origin.
Respiratory Infections on the Rise
Apart from stomach infections, many attendees are experiencing respiratory illnesses, which is common in crowded environments.
“Many people returning from Kumbh are reporting symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, cough, and cold. This is expected in such large gatherings, especially when people take dips in the river in the early morning hours when temperatures are low,” the doctor explained.
Preventive Measures Advised
To minimize health risks, experts recommend that visitors take the following precautions:
- Carry personal drinking water, either bottled or from home.
- Consume food from hygienic sources and prefer cooked meals over raw food.
- Wear masks and maintain distance where possible.
- Avoid swallowing river water while taking a dip.
These preventive measures can help mitigate the risk of infections and illnesses among pilgrims attending the Maha Kumbh.
