One of the latest reports by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has introduced serious concerns regarding the rising levels of faecal coliform bacteria in the Ganga Waters in Prayagraj. The primary reason for this is the Maha Kumbh Mela, where millions of individuals gather for a holy dip. These bacteria are a warning of possible contamination which can cause a range of health problems such as diarrhea, vomiting, typhoid, and cholera.

As per the information, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Mr. Yogi Adityanath has denied the conclusions presented by the report, and he claims that the water is safe to drink. This has sparked confusion in the minds of the people about whether the holy water at Sangam is safe or not. Here is what you need to know.

What is Faecal Coliform Bacteria?

Faecal Coliform bacteria is a type of bacteria that is naturally present in the intestines of humans and animals that are warm-blooded. The appearance of this specific bacteria in water is a signal of possible contamination. It states that water might comprise harmful pathogens such as viruses, parasites, and other disease-causing germs, which come from human or animal waste. Water quality examinations are usually undertaken to look for these bacteria and decide if water is safe for drinking, swimming, bathing, or other activities.

What Did the CPCB Report Say?

The CPCB report is a result of testing of Ganga Water after the Maha Kumbh gathering. The report stated that water quality at all the sites in Prayagraj was not appropriate for bathing due to rising levels of faecal coliform bacteria. During the Maha Kumbh Mela, many people took a holy dip in the river, particularly on special days, which led to a boost in the bacteria levels. As per the report saying, the increasing levels of that faecal contamination in the river is a big issue.

According to a US-based research program called KnowYourH2O, untreated faecal substances in water increases the amount of organic material. As this material declines, it uses up the oxygen in the water, which can harm both human health and aquatic life.

Increasing Level of Faecal Coliform Bacteria

In 2004, a government committee suggested that the suitable level of faecal coliform in river water should be less than 500 MPN (Most Probable Number) per 100 milliliters and the highest allowed level should be 2,500 MPN per 100 milliliters. The CPCB also set the safe limit for bathing water at 2,500 MPN per 100 milliliters.

However, the latest data from February 4, just a day after the Basant Panchami Shahi Snan during the Maha Kumbh Mela, shows alarming levels of faecal coliform in the Ganga. Near Shastri Bridge, the bacteria level was recorded at 11,000 MPN per 100 milliliters, and at Sangam, it was around 7,900 MPN per 100 milliliters. The level in the Yamuna River, which flows into the Ganga at Sangam, was also high at 4,900 MPN per 100 milliliters. All the numbers exceed the safe limit.

What are the Health Risks Associated With Faecal Coliform Bacteria?

Faecal Coliform bacteria itself does not give rise to any illness but it is an indication that the water could contain harmful pathogens. Dr. Atul Kakar, a senior doctor at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi, explained that the water is not safe for drinking or bathing, as bacteria from human waste are entering the river. He warned that contaminated water can cause waterborne diseases like skin infections, diarrhea, vomiting, typhoid, and cholera. This is a serious health risk, especially for the millions of people bathing in the river during the Maha Kumbh Mela.

The contamination of the Ganga also impacts local neighborhoods that depend on it for drinking, cooking, and daily activities. Long exposure to faecal bacteria can lead to infections in the skin, digestive system, and even the respiratory system, which makes it a serious concern for public health.

NGT’s Concern About Pollution

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) recently studied the CPCB’s results and raised worries about pollution in the Ganga. They noticed that the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) had not submitted a proper action report as needed. Instead, they provided some water test results and a cover letter, which were not sufficient.

The NGT has given the UP government’s legal team one day to check the results and answer. It also ordered the administrators who are obligated to look after water quality in Prayagraj to appear at the next hearing on February 19.

UP CM Yogi Adityanath’s Response

The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh has denied the results of the report and said that the water at the Sangam is safe for both bathing and drinking purposes. He also announced that the results regarding the extreme contamination of the water were not true and were part of a campaign to defame the Maha Kumbh.

Adityanath stated that the UP government and the CPCB are continuously monitoring the water quality, and current reports show that the water at Sangam is appropriate for both bathing and ritual drinking. He also said that even if the faecal coliform levels may rise due to sewage leaks and animal waste, they remain within the acceptable limit of 2,500 MPN per 100 milliliters. The Chief Minister added that the CPCB also assured that the water met cleanliness standards in January and February.

Final Thoughts

The report by CPCB raised serious concerns about the contamination of the Ganga in Prayagraj during the Maha Kumbh Mela. It also highlights the risks of harmful bacteria in the water that can cause health diseases. Despite the government’s reassurances, the issue remains an alarming public health issue that needs adequate attention and action from the relevant authorities.

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