By The sacred waters of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers, where millions of Hindus gather for the Maha Kumbh festival, have been found to be contaminated with high levels of fecal coliform bacteria. According to a report by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the water quality at the confluence of the two rivers, known as Sangam, is not suitable for bathing. The CPCB report revealed that the fecal coliform count in the Ganges was 1,400 times higher than the acceptable limit, while in the Yamuna, it was 660 times higher.
Despite the alarming findings, millions of devotees have taken a dip in the sacred waters, believing that it will wash away their sins. The festival, which began on January 13, has attracted over 62 crore devotees so far, according to official estimates. However, experts warn that bathing in contaminated water can lead to various health problems, including skin infections and waterborne diseases.
The CPCB report has raised concerns about the safety of the devotees and the need for better waste management and water treatment facilities.The Uttar Pradesh government has dismissed the CPCB report, calling it “baseless allegations.” Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has claimed that the water quality at Sangam is safe for bathing. However, experts and environmental activists have expressed concerns about the government’s handling of the issue. They argue that the contamination of the sacred waters is a result of inadequate waste management and lack of effective measures to prevent pollution.
