Wed Feb 19 12:55:27 UTC 2025: ## Yogi Adityanath Defends Maha Kumbh Amidst Water Quality Concerns
**Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh –** Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath vehemently defended the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela on Wednesday, dismissing allegations regarding water quality as a smear campaign aimed at defaming the religious event. His comments come in the wake of a Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) report to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) indicating that faecal coliform levels at some locations in Prayagraj exceeded bathing water quality standards.
Adityanath asserted that the Sangam water is safe for both bathing and drinking, citing current data showing low levels of biological oxygen demand (BOD) and high dissolved oxygen levels. He acknowledged the presence of faecal coliform bacteria, attributing it to factors like sewage leakage and animal waste, but insisted that levels remain well below the threshold considered unsafe. He further pointed to NGT findings confirming lower-than-reported levels of faecal waste.
The Chief Minister accused those spreading “fake videos” and making baseless allegations against the Kumbh, Ganga River, and Sanatan Dharma of playing with the faith of millions of devotees. He emphasized the Maha Kumbh’s societal significance, stating that it is not a government-organized event but one in which the government plays a supportive role. Over 56 crore devotees have participated in the Kumbh thus far, he added, with seven days remaining.
Adityanath also expressed condolences for the victims of a stampede and road accidents associated with the Kumbh, urging against politicizing the tragedies.
First Piper 