Maha Kumbh water: The holy waters of the Maha Kumbh, where millions take a sacred dip, are now at the center of a shocking controversy. A report by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has revealed alarming levels of fecal coliform bacteria, 13 times higher than the prescribed safe limit. However, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has dismissed concerns, claiming that the water is pure and even drinkable.
So, what is fecal coliform bacteria? How did it contaminate the Maha Kumbh waters? What are the risks of bathing or swallowing it? And why is the government denying the pollution reports? This detailed explainer covers all aspects—scientific, religious, environmental, and governmental responses.
Table of Contents
What is Fecal Coliform Bacteria?
Fecal coliform bacteria are a group of microorganisms commonly found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals, including humans. While these bacteria are generally harmless inside the body, their presence in water is a major indicator of fecal contamination.
According to ‘Know Your H2O,’ when sewage or waste enters a water body, it decays rapidly, reducing oxygen levels and contaminating the water. This makes the water unsafe for drinking and even bathing. The contamination is measured using the MPN/100ML (Most Probable Number per 100 Milliliters) formula.
In 2004, the Ministry of Urban Development set safety guidelines, stating that river water should have:
- Maximum 500 MPN/100ML for safe drinking.
- Maximum 2,500 MPN/100ML for safe bathing.
How Much Fecal Bacteria Was Found in Maha Kumbh Water?
On February 3, 2025, the CPCB submitted water quality reports to the NGT. Samples were collected from seven locations, including Shringaverpur Ghat, Lord Curzon Bridge, Nagvasuki Temple, Diha Ghat, Naini Bridge, and Sangam.
Shocking Findings:
- At Diha Ghat and Old Naini Bridge, the bacteria level was 33,000 MPN/100ML – 13 times the safe limit!
- At Shringaverpur Ghat, the level was 23,000 MPN/100ML.
- The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) confirmed that the water was unfit for both drinking and bathing.
Health Risks: What Happens If You Bathe or Swallow This Water?
Risks of Bathing in Contaminated Water
According to a Center for Science and Environment (CSE) report, fecal bacteria in water can cause:
- Skin infections: Redness, acne, itching.
- Eye & Ear infections: Symptoms appear within 7 days.
- Severe rashes and allergies due to prolonged exposure.
Dangers of Swallowing Contaminated Water
Dr. Ankur Jain, Senior Consultant at Max Super Speciality Hospital, warns that consuming this water could lead to:
- Cholera
- Typhoid
- Dysentery
- Increased risk of colon and bladder cancer with prolonged exposure.
How Did So Much Fecal Bacteria Get into the Maha Kumbh Water?
There are three primary sources of contamination:
1. Sewage Dumping into Ganga & Yamuna
- In Prayagraj, 44 out of 81 drains discharge untreated sewage directly into rivers.
- Daily, about 73.80 million liters (MLD) of untreated wastewater flows into the Ganga.
- NGT warned the UP government six months ago, but no strict action was taken.
2. Temporary Toilets & Open Defecation
- 1.5 lakh temporary toilets were set up for Maha Kumbh, but reports claim waste treatment is inefficient.
- Open defecation along riverbanks is another contributing factor.
3. Millions of Pilgrims Bathing in the River
- On January 29, 2025, over 7 crore people took a dip in Sangam.
- Bacteria from skin, clothes, and body waste increased contamination levels.
Government’s Response: What Does CM Yogi Say?
CM Yogi Adityanath addressed the Uttar Pradesh Assembly on February 19, stating:
“The water of Maha Kumbh is clean and fit for bathing and drinking. Some people are spreading false propaganda to defame the event.”
He argued that sewage leakage, animals bathing in the river, and natural factors contribute to bacteria levels. However, he claimed that:
- The UPPCB tested water samples eight times, and fecal coliform was found within safe limits.
- More than 56 crore devotees have bathed in Maha Kumbh without complaints.
NGT’s Stand: Is the Government Hiding the Truth?
On February 19, NGT questioned the UP government’s water quality reports, stating that they lacked detailed information. The tribunal has now asked the government to submit fresh water test results within a week.
Should Devotees Be Concerned?
Despite CM Yogi’s claims, official reports indicate that Maha Kumbh water contains dangerous levels of fecal bacteria. The risk of skin diseases, gastrointestinal infections, and severe illnesses remains high. Until new reports confirm improved water quality, devotees must exercise caution before taking a dip or consuming the water.
What Are Your Thoughts?
Do you believe the government’s claims, or do you trust the scientific reports? Comment below and share your views!
Also read:
