A recent report has raised alarm over the quality of water at the Sangam in Prayagraj, where millions of pilgrims have gathered for the Maha Kumbh. According to water quality tests, the fecal coliform bacteria levels in the river have been found to be significantly higher than permissible limits, raising concerns about potential health risks for devotees taking the holy dip.
Environmentalists and health experts have cautioned that the presence of high levels of fecal bacteria in the river indicates severe contamination, which can lead to gastrointestinal infections, skin diseases, and other waterborne illnesses. Reports suggest that untreated sewage and industrial waste being discharged into the Ganga and Yamuna are major contributors to the rising bacterial levels.
Despite the alarming findings, authorities have assured that they are monitoring the situation and taking necessary measures to maintain cleanliness in the river. However, concerns remain over the impact on public health as lakhs of devotees continue to bathe in the sacred waters.
The Maha Kumbh, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, sees millions of pilgrims from across India and beyond coming to take a holy dip at the Sangam, believing it washes away sins and grants spiritual liberation.
