The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has strongly criticized the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) for submitting outdated water sample data in response to concerns over water contamination at the sacred Sangam in Prayagraj during the Maha Kumbh. The tribunal, in a scathing remark, accused the UPPCB of wasting its time by presenting water quality samples collected over a month ago.
The controversy erupted after a report by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) revealed dangerously high levels of faecal coliform bacteria in the waters of the Sangam, a confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Faecal coliform bacteria, commonly found in sewage contamination, pose serious health risks to millions of devotees who gather at the Maha Kumbh to take a holy dip. According to CPCB standards, the permissible limit for faecal coliform is 2,500 units per 100 ml, but the recent findings suggest contamination levels far exceeding this threshold.
The NGT’s frustration became evident when it questioned the relevance of UPPCB’s outdated data, which was based on samples taken on January 12. The tribunal’s bench reprimanded the board for submitting extensive documentation with little current relevance, stating, “Why have you filed such a huge document then? To waste our time?” In response, the Additional Advocate General representing UPPCB assured the tribunal that fresh samples had been collected and that an action-taken report would be submitted within a week.
Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath defended the water quality at the Sangam, asserting that all necessary measures were being taken to maintain its sanctity. Addressing concerns in the assembly, he stated that all sewage drains leading to the confluence had been sealed, and water was being released only after proper purification. He further emphasized that continuous monitoring by the UPPCB showed that Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels were below 3, while dissolved oxygen levels were around 8-9, indicating that the water was safe not just for bathing but also for ritualistic consumption, known as ‘Aachman.’
Despite these assurances, concerns persist among environmentalists and devotees, with many questioning the effectiveness of pollution control measures in place. The Maha Kumbh, a once-in-12-years event, draws millions of pilgrims, making water quality a critical issue. Activists have urged authorities to ensure real-time monitoring and transparency in water quality assessments to prevent potential health hazards.
As the NGT awaits the UPPCB’s fresh findings, the issue highlights the broader challenge of maintaining ecological balance while managing religious and cultural events on such a massive scale. With faith and public health at stake, the need for stringent and proactive pollution control measures has never been more urgent.
