Maha Kumbh Water Quality Deemed Suitable for Bathing, Says CPCB Report

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): In a surprising turn of events, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has released a report stating that the water quality of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers during the recently concluded Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj was suitable for bathing. This report, submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), contradicts previous findings that suggested the water quality did not meet the standards for bathing. According to the CPCB, statistical analysis was necessary due to data variability, as samples were collected from different locations on different dates and times. The report highlights that the water quality met major parameters, including pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and fecal coliform count (FC).

The CPCB monitored water quality twice a week during the Maha Kumbh from January 12, with an expert committee collecting samples from five locations on the Ganga river and two locations on the Yamuna river. Despite initial concerns about the water quality, the latest report claims that the median value of FC was 1,400, within the permissible limit of 2,500 units per 100 ml. The case is now listed for hearing on April 7, with Advocate Saurabh Tiwari appearing as counsel for the petitioner. The NGT will review the report and make a final decision on the matter. This development raises questions about the reliability of water quality monitoring during large-scale events like the Maha Kumbh Mela. While the CPCB's report suggests that the water quality was suitable for bathing, previous reports had raised concerns about the safety of the water.