The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was informed on Monday that water at various locations in Prayagraj during the Mahakumbh Mela did not meet the required standards for safe bathing. A report by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) revealed that the water contained high levels of faecal coliform, which indicates sewage contamination.

According to the CPCB, the permissible limit for faecal coliform is 2,500 units per 100 ml. However, the water samples taken from different locations in Prayagraj exceeded this limit.

The NGT bench, led by Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, along with Judicial Member Justice Sudhir Agarwal and Expert Member A. Senthil Vel, was reviewing efforts to prevent sewage from flowing into the Ganga and Yamuna rivers in Prayagraj. The CPCB report, dated February 3, pointed out that the water failed to meet primary bathing standards on several occasions.

Mahakumbh crowds and rising pollution

The report also noted that a large number of people bathe in the Ganga and Yamuna during Mahakumbh, especially on auspicious bathing days. This increases the level of faecal coliform, making the water unsafe for bathing.

Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) had been asked by the NGT to submit a detailed action report on the situation. However, the tribunal found that the UPPCB only submitted a covering letter along with some water test reports, instead of a full compliance report.

Upon reviewing the UPPCB’s submission, the NGT observed that high levels of faecal and total coliform were found at multiple locations.

NGT issues strict orders to UP government

The tribunal has given the Uttar Pradesh government one day to review the report and submit a response. It also directed the member secretary of UPPCB and the state authority responsible for maintaining water quality to appear virtually for the next hearing on February 19.

The NGT has asked the state authorities to take immediate action to improve the river’s water quality, ensuring that devotees can safely bathe in the holy rivers during the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela.

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