Mahakumbh: Ganga is getting contaminated with fecal coliform, know its ill effects? People returning from Kumbh are getting sick

Posted on 19th Feb 2025 by rohit kumar

The ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj has become a center of attraction for the whole world these days. Not only India, but people from different parts of the world are reaching here to take a dip of faith in the Sangam. According to the data so far, more than 56 crore devotees have taken a holy dip. However, due to the crowd gathering here and crores of people taking a dip in the Sangam every day, water pollution is increasing. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has expressed concern about the dirt spread in the water in its recent report. The report says that the water of Ganga and Yamuna is currently not fit for bathing.

 

Ganga water is getting contaminated.

 

CPCB said in a report released on February 3 that fecal coliform (dangerous bacteria) has increased in many places including Sangam. Its level is much higher than the prescribed limit of 2,500 units per 100 ml, which indicates serious pollution. Since a large number of people are still bathing here every day, this can lead to an increase in the level of pollution and the risk of many types of health problems.

 

Fecal coliform is increasing in the water of Ganga.

 

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has informed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that the level of fecal coliform has increased at various places in Prayagraj during the Maha Kumbh. This water is not suitable for bathing.

 

It is worth noting that fecal coliform is tested to assess the quality of water to determine whether the water is safe for drinking, swimming, or other activities. After this report came out, health experts said that there may be an increased risk of spreading waterborne diseases from here.

 

Many diseases can be caused by fecal coliform.

 

Medical reports show that bathing in water contaminated with fecal coliform can cause many health problems. It can increase the problems of gastrointestinal infections such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. Not only this, there is also a risk of skin and eye infections due to contact with contaminated water. Contaminated water increases the risk of rashes, eye irritation, and fungal infections. People with weak immune systems may also be at risk of lung infections, due to which all people going to Sangam are being alerted.

 

Allergy problems seen in sadhus returning from Kumbh

 

Health experts said, apart from the immediate risk to pilgrims, this pollution is also a big threat to local people who depend on the Ganges for their daily needs. Health may be affected due to the growth of bacteria in the water, keeping this in mind, local people need to keep paying special attention to the hygiene of drinking water. Here, allergy problems are being seen in a large number of Naga sadhus who returned to Banaras from Prayagraj Mahakumbh.

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