Tue Feb 18 07:18:00 UTC 2025: ## Prayagraj Mahakumbh: Ganga River Water Quality Fails Bathing Standards, NGT Raps UPPCB
**Prayagraj, February 6, 2025** – The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has expressed serious concern over the poor water quality of the Ganga River in Prayagraj during the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela. A report submitted by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) revealed that faecal coliform levels at various monitoring points exceed permissible limits for bathing, indicating significant sewage contamination.
The CPCB report, dated February 3rd, highlighted non-compliance with water quality standards at all monitored locations on multiple occasions. High levels of faecal coliform, a key indicator of sewage contamination, were detected, exceeding the permissible limit of 2,500 units per 100 ml. The NGT noted that the increased concentration is likely exacerbated by the large number of pilgrims bathing in the river, particularly during auspicious days.
The Tribunal further criticized the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) for failing to comply with previous directives to submit a comprehensive action taken report. The UPPCB’s response, deemed inadequate by the NGT, consisted only of a covering letter and some water test reports which also confirmed high levels of faecal and total coliform bacteria.
The NGT has granted the Uttar Pradesh state counsel one day to review the CPCB report and submit a response. The Member Secretary of the UPPCB and the relevant state authority responsible for maintaining Ganga water quality in Prayagraj have been summoned to appear virtually at the next hearing on February 19th. The Tribunal’s strong reaction underscores the severity of the pollution issue and the urgent need for effective action to protect the river’s water quality during the Kumbh Mela.
First Piper 