The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has raised alarms over the alarming levels of faecal coliform bacteria found in the Ganga River during the holy Maha Kumbh Mela taking place in Prayagraj. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) submitted reports showing persistent violations of water quality standards, indicating serious sewage contamination as millions of devotees flock to the river for ritual immersion.
According to the CPCB's report, which was made public on February 3, faecal coliform levels repeatedly surpassed the permissible threshold of 2,500 units per 100 ml at various monitored locations along the river. The sampling occurs as masses partake in sacred baths nearly every day since the festival commenced on January 13—a peak time for religious observances—leading to intensified concerns around public health.
NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava highlighted the urgent matter during the tribunal's recent hearings. "The river water quality was not conforming to the primary water quality for bathing with respect to faecal coliform (FC) at all the monitored locations on various occasions. A large number of people bathe in the river at Prayagraj during the Maha Kumbh Mela, including on auspicious bathing days, which eventually leads to an increase in faecal concentration," he cited from the CPCB report.
Notably, the Mela administration reported staggering numbers, indicating over 54.31 crore devotees have taken dips at the Triveni Sangam—a major confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers—since the festival began. This influx of pilgrims drastically contributes to the pollution levels, raising fears among health officials about possible outbreaks of waterborne diseases.
Despite these alarming reports, the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) has faced criticism for its lack of compliance with the NGT's previous directives, which required it to submit comprehensive action reports detailing specific pollution control measures. Instead, UPPCB only presented cover notes with minimal data, prompting NGT to demand accountability. "Member Secretary, UPPCB, and the concerned state authority responsible for maintaining the water quality in the river Ganga at Prayagraj are directed to appear virtually at the next hearing, scheduled for February 19," stated the NGT.
The NGT serves as the legislative body overseeing river health, particularly examining how sewage and industrial discharge can compromise sacred waters. The tribunal's bench, also comprising Judicial Member Justice Sudhir Agarwal and Expert Member A Senthil Vel, leads the discussions on compliance issues as the current situation continues to deteriorate.
Local authorities earlier launched initiatives aimed at improving water quality during the Mela, including shutting down unauthorized industrial operations and redirecting untreated sewage flow away from the rivers to sewage treatment plants (STPs). Measures such as daily waste removal and increased water releases from reservoirs have been enacted to mitigate pollution. Trash skimmer machines are deployed on the banks, removing considerable amounts of waste—plastic, coconuts, and other refuse—from the river's surface.
Vivek Chaturvedi, the Additional District Magistrate (ADM) of the Maha Kumbh Mela, insisted the river remains safe for religious immersion. "A team from the Pollution Control Board is conducting daily sample testing at different ghats, and the levels are under control," he asserted, emphasizing the government's commitment to maintaining safety protocols for bathers during such large-scale events.
Meanwhile, the government indicated its determination to assure public health and hygiene during the Kumbh, with Rs 1,600 crore allocated for effective water and waste management strategies. New initiatives focus on raising awareness among devotees about responsible waste disposal, particularly emphasizing the importance of cleanliness to preserve the sanctity of the Ganga.
Despite these efforts, the NGT's latest concerns about untreated sewage flowing directly through Prayagraj's water bodies cannot be overlooked. The state is under mounting pressure to take stricter action to safeguard the health and well-being of millions partaking in these sacred rituals. The Maha Kumbh Mela, revered for its religious significance, occurs once every twelve years, culminating with overwhelming crowds gathered on auspicious bathing days. These factors compound the difficulty of maintaining water quality amid soaring attendance.
A broader acknowledgment of these issues must occur as preparations ramp up for the final weeks of the festival. Continuous monitoring and enforcement of safety standards are imperative as Prayagraj works diligently to balance religious devotion with public health. With the NGT's involvement, it is clear there exists both urgency and scrutiny to uphold the quality of the Ganga, ensuring its preservation for future generations.