Wed Feb 19 17:27:27 UTC 2025: ## NGT Slams Uttar Pradesh for Delayed, Insufficient Ganga-Yamuna Pollution Data During Maha Kumbh

**New Delhi, February 19, 2025** – The National Green Tribunal (NGT) sharply criticized the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) for its inadequate reporting on water pollution levels in the Ganga and Yamuna rivers during the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. The UPPCB’s report, deemed insufficient by the NGT, lacked crucial data on fecal coliform levels, a key indicator of contamination, particularly during the festival’s peak bathing days.

A Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) report, previously submitted to the NGT, revealed high levels of fecal coliform at the Sangam, the confluence of the two rivers where millions of devotees are taking holy dips. The UPPCB’s submission, covering only data up to January 12th – before the Maha Kumbh began – was deemed insufficient and potentially misleading.

The NGT questioned the UPPCB’s 250-page report, noting its lack of information on fecal coliform levels. The tribunal directly questioned whether the report’s minimal detail was intended to delay proceedings. While the Uttar Pradesh government stated it does not dispute the CPCB’s findings, it requested clarification on the sampling locations used by the central regulator.

The NGT has directed the UPPCB to submit a complete report, including the latest data on water quality, within one week. The case will be heard again on February 28th. This action follows a February 17th NGT order citing the CPCB report, which confirmed that water quality at the Sangam did not meet standards for bathing due to high fecal coliform levels. The NGT emphasized the significant increase in fecal contamination due to the large number of people bathing during the Maha Kumbh.

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