Jobaaj Stories
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has informed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that the water quality in Prayagraj’s rivers during the Maha Kumbh Mela is not safe for bathing. The report showed that the faecal coliform levels, which indicate sewage contamination, were higher than the allowed limit.
The Maha Kumbh Mela is a big religious event, with millions of people taking a holy dip in the rivers. So far, more than 54 crore people have bathed in the rivers since the Mela started on January 13. However, the large number of bathers has caused an increase in faecal coliform levels in the water.
Faecal coliform is used to check if water is polluted with waste. The allowed limit for faecal coliform in water is 2,500 units per 100 ml. The CPCB report showed that the levels of faecal coliform in the water during the Mela were much higher, making the water unsafe for bathing.
The NGT, which is looking into a petition to stop sewage from entering the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, was concerned about this issue. The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) had been asked to submit a report on water quality but had only sent a few test results instead of a complete action plan.
The NGT told the UPPCB to examine the report and respond by February 19. The NGT also ordered the state authorities to attend the next hearing virtually.
This situation highlights the challenge of keeping the rivers clean during such a large event while also maintaining public health. The authorities are now under pressure to find ways to clean the water and protect the health of millions of people bathing in the holy rivers.
