Dangerous level of Fecal content found in river water at Mahakumbh

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has summoned Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) officials for failing to submit a comprehensive ‘action taken report’ on improving water quality in Prayagraj amid the ongoing Mahakumbh. The tribunal had earlier directed both the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and UPPCB to monitor water pollution, display results, and submit reports to the Registrar General by January 31 and February 28. However, UPPCB did not comply with the order, prompting the tribunal to take action.

The CPCB submitted its report on February 3, highlighting significant water pollution in the Ganga and Yamuna. The report stated that water quality at all monitored locations failed to meet the primary bathing standards due to high levels of fecal coliform. Samples collected on January 12, 13, 15, 19, 20, and 24 showed contamination from large-scale human activity, including ritual bathing during Mahakumbh. The report further pointed out that increased fecal concentration was observed during auspicious bathing days, raising serious concerns over water safety.

The report also noted that Geosynthetic Dewatering Tubes, installed to treat polluted water at seven locations in Prayagraj, were not functioning as per prescribed norms. A verification check conducted between January 6 and 8 for installation status and on January 18 and 19 for treatment efficiency revealed that water samples from all seven sites failed to comply with standards. The analysis showed non-compliance in pH levels (6.5-8.5), dissolved oxygen (5.0 mg/l), total suspended solids (50 mg/l), chemical oxygen demand (100 mg/l), biochemical oxygen demand (30 mg/l), and fecal coliform (230 MPN/100ml).

The NGT order stated, “We find that the order of the Tribunal to file a comprehensive action taken report has not been complied with by the UPPCB.” It further mentioned that documents from the UPPCB’s Central Laboratory reflected high levels of fecal and total coliform at various locations. In response to these findings, the tribunal directed the Member Secretary of UPPCB and other responsible state officials to appear virtually on February 19 to provide explanations regarding the lack of compliance and measures taken to address water pollution.

The issue of water contamination has remained a major concern amid the Mahakumbh, where millions of devotees continue to take ritual dips in the river. The failure to maintain water quality as per environmental norms has drawn attention to pollution control measures and their effectiveness. The upcoming hearing on February 19 is expected to determine further action against the concerned authorities.