Mahakumbh: High Amount of Poop Bacteria Found in Sangam Water
Mahakumbh 2025 faces water quality concerns due to faecal coliform, but authorities and Ganga's self-cleaning ability provide hope.
The Mahakumbh Mela, the world’s largest human gathering, concluded on 26th February with Mahashivratri marking the final day. Crores of devotees took a holy dip at Prayagraj’s Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet. However, recent reports have raised concerns about the water quality at the Sangam, sparking debates over public health and safety.
What’s the Issue?
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) submitted a report to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) revealing high levels of faecal coliform bacteria in the water around the Kumbh Mela region. Faecal coliform bacteria are harmful microorganisms found in human and animal waste. These bacteria can cause serious health issues like fever, nausea, stomach cramps, and even diseases such as typhoid, hepatitis, and dysentery if ingested or exposed to the skin.
The CPCB collected water samples in January 2025 and found alarming levels of waste, chemicals, and faecal coliform in the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. The report stated that the water quality failed to meet basic bathing standards, posing a significant risk to the millions of pilgrims bathing in the rivers.
How Did This Happen?
The massive influx of people during the Mahakumbh has led to increased faecal contamination in the water. Despite efforts to manage waste, many treatment sites were found to be not following proper rules, worsening the situation.
Authorities Respond
The NGT summoned officials from the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) on 19th February 2025 to explain the failure to maintain water quality during the Mahakumbh. However, local authorities have assured the public that steps are being taken to address the issue.
The Mahakumbh Special Executive Officer stated that over 1.5 lakh toilets are being maintained daily to ensure proper waste disposal. Additionally, six sewage treatment plants are operational to reduce pollution during the event.
UP CM Denies Claims
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has dismissed reports of faecal coliform bacteria in the Sangam water. He claimed that the water at Triveni Sangam is safe to drink and bathe in, reassuring devotees about its purity.
New Study Offers Hope
Amid the controversy, a new study has brought some relief. Padma Shri awardee Dr. Ajay Sonkar revealed that the Ganga River has a unique self-purification system. The study found that the river contains 1,100 types of bacteriophages—microscopic viruses that destroy harmful bacteria. This natural purification process makes the Ganga 50 times faster at cleaning itself compared to other freshwater rivers.
Dr. Sonkar’s findings suggest that the holy water at Triveni Sangam remains safe for bathing, even during large gatherings like the Mahakumbh.
What’s Next?
While the debate over water quality continues, authorities are working to ensure better waste management and water treatment systems. Pilgrims are advised to take precautions, such as bathing with soap and avoiding drinking untreated river water.
The Mahakumbh Mela remains a symbol of faith and devotion, but the recent concerns highlight the need for better infrastructure and environmental care to protect both the rivers and the millions who rely on them.
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