The ongoing Maha Kumbh 2025 at Prayagraj has witnessed an unprecedented gathering of devotees, with reports stating that by February 14, around 500 million people had already visited the holy site. However, alongside the spiritual significance, concerns have emerged regarding the deteriorating water quality of the Sangam (confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers). A recent Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) report revealed alarmingly high levels of fecal coliform bacteria, surpassing the safe limits for bathing and posing serious health risks.
What is Fecal Coliform Bacteria?
Fecal coliforms are a group of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. Their presence in water bodies indicates contamination through sewage, human waste, or animal waste. If untreated sewage or organic waste enters the river, it leads to:
- Depletion of oxygen levels in water, harming aquatic life.
- Spread of harmful pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella, which can cause diseases.
- Increased risk of infections for those bathing or consuming the water.
Safe Limits vs. Actual Levels in Sangam Waters
According to the Ministry of Urban Development (2004 recommendations):
- Desirable limit of fecal coliform in water: 500 MPN per 100ml
- Dangerous level: Above 2500 MPN per 100ml
However, recent water quality tests from CPCB’s Maha Kumbh 2025 dashboard show shocking results:
- Sangam (Confluence) – 7,900 MPN per 100ml
- Ganga River – 11,000 MPN per 100ml
- Yamuna River – 4,900 MPN per 100ml
These figures far exceed both the desirable and dangerous limits, raising serious health concerns.
When and How Was the Water Tested?
The fecal coliform levels were measured on key snan (bathing) days, when crowds peak. Specifically, on:
- February 3 (Basant Panchami Snan)
- February 4 (Post-Snan Testing)
- January 29 (Mauni Amavasya Snan)
During these periods, water pollution levels spiked due to:
- Mass bathing – Increased human waste contamination.
- Lack of proper waste management – Overflowing sewage and inadequate treatment facilities.
Why is This a Health Concern?
Doctors from Sir Ganga Ram Hospital warn that while coliform bacteria alone may not always be harmful, they indicate the presence of other dangerous pathogens, such as:
- E. coli – Causes diarrhea, food poisoning, and severe infections.
- Salmonella – Leads to typhoid and gastroenteritis.
- Protozoan parasites – Can result in severe stomach infections.
Bathing in contaminated water can lead to:
- Skin infections
- Eye infections
- Gastrointestinal diseases
- Respiratory issues
Drinking such water without proper filtration or boiling can be extremely hazardous, especially for children, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
Government and Environmental Response
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken cognizance of the matter and has urged authorities to act. Some government measures include:
- Setting up water treatment plants – But their capacity is proving inadequate.
- Regular monitoring of water quality – However, pollution levels remain high.
- Public advisories – Authorities are advising pilgrims to avoid drinking untreated river water.
Despite these efforts, experts believe the scale of preparations is insufficient to handle such an enormous influx of devotees.
What Needs to Be Done?
To mitigate water pollution and ensure safer bathing conditions, authorities must:
- Increase sewage treatment capacity – Ensure all waste is treated before reaching the river.
- Improve waste disposal management – Implement strict sanitation measures around pilgrimage sites.
- Deploy real-time water monitoring systems – Detect contamination spikes immediately.
- Spread awareness among pilgrims – Encourage safe bathing practices and avoid drinking untreated river water.
- Enforce stricter environmental laws – Prevent industrial discharge and untreated sewage dumping.
Conclusion
The Maha Kumbh 2025 is a spiritual and cultural event of unprecedented scale, but the pollution in Sangam waters is a serious environmental and public health issue. The dangerously high levels of fecal bacteria indicate severe contamination, raising concerns over disease outbreaks and waterborne infections. While authorities are making efforts, more immediate and large-scale actions are necessary to protect both pilgrims and the sacred rivers.
Ensuring clean and safe water should be a top priority, not just for Maha Kumbh but for the long-term health of India’s rivers.
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