By The Sampadak Express
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has raised alarms about the deteriorating water quality in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, amid the ongoing Maha Kumbh. In a report submitted to the National Green Tribunal, the CPCB highlighted dangerously high faecal coliform levels in the Sangam waters, exceeding the permissible limits for safe bathing.
Faecal coliform bacteria are a primary indicator of water contamination, signaling the potential presence of harmful pathogens like viruses, parasites, and other bacteria from human and animal waste. According to CPCB guidelines, these bacteria should not exceed 2,500 units per 100 ml of water to meet the primary bathing standard.
The CPCB’s report, filed on February 3, reveals that faecal bacteria levels in the Sangam, particularly during the Shahi Snan days, have alarmingly increased. The report further mentions that despite efforts to monitor and regulate water quality, the river water at various locations has failed to meet safe bathing criteria due to the high presence of faecal coliforms.
The presence of these bacteria in water doesn’t directly cause illness but is a clear indication of sewage contamination. The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) stated that while faecal coliform itself doesn’t cause disease, its presence suggests the water may contain harmful pathogens. Water contamination with faecal coliforms can lead to various health issues such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, typhoid, cholera, skin diseases, and more severe infections.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has linked faecal coliform contamination to the spread of diseases like cholera, typhoid, dysentery, hepatitis, and parasitic infections such as giardiasis and schistosomiasis.
As the Maha Kumbh draws millions of devotees to bathe in the Sangam, the rising bacteria levels raise serious health concerns, making it crucial for authorities to address water safety during this major religious event.
