“NGT Criticizes U.P. Pollution Control Board for Insufficient Data on High Faecal Coliform Bacteria Levels Ahead of Maha Kumbh 2025”

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has raised serious concerns about the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board’s (UPPCB) failure to provide adequate data regarding the alarming levels of faecal coliform bacteria in the rivers ahead of the Maha Kumbh 2025. As the state prepares for one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, the NGT’s intervention highlights the ongoing challenges in managing the environmental impact of such massive events.

The Maha Kumbh, held once every 12 years, is expected to attract millions of devotees who come to take part in the sacred ritual of bathing in the holy rivers, particularly the Ganges, to cleanse their sins. The event, which brings together people from all over India and beyond, raises concerns about water quality, waste management, and the overall ecological impact on the region. The NGT, tasked with safeguarding environmental standards in India, has been closely monitoring these issues, especially in light of previous environmental concerns during past Kumbh Mela events.

Faecal coliform bacteria are a key indicator of water pollution, and high concentrations of these bacteria in water sources pose significant health risks. They typically originate from human or animal waste, and their presence in water bodies indicates contamination, potentially leading to waterborne diseases. The NGT has been vocal in its criticism of the authorities’ inability to address these critical environmental issues ahead of the mega event, which is expected to see an influx of millions of people.

In its latest directive, the NGT expressed dissatisfaction with the UPPCB’s response to earlier inquiries about the quality of water in the region. The board had been tasked with monitoring water quality and providing detailed reports on the levels of faecal coliform bacteria in rivers like the Ganges, which holds significant religious and cultural value for the people attending the Kumbh. However, the NGT found that the data provided by the UPPCB was incomplete and insufficient, with significant gaps in the monitoring process and the lack of proper reporting on the contamination levels.

The NGT’s concerns are not unwarranted, as previous Kumbh Melas have faced scrutiny over water pollution. In the past, the quality of the Ganges and other rivers in the region has been compromised due to unregulated bathing, waste disposal, and inadequate sanitation facilities. The sheer number of people participating in the event often exacerbates these issues, as large quantities of waste—both organic and inorganic—are generated, leading to contamination of water sources.

The UPPCB had been expected to conduct thorough testing of water bodies leading up to the Maha Kumbh 2025, to ensure that water quality meets the standards set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). However, the NGT found that the board had not provided the necessary data on faecal coliform bacteria levels, which are critical for public health assessments. The lack of transparency in reporting and insufficient action taken to address water quality issues has raised alarm bells within the tribunal, which has called for immediate corrective measures.

The NGT has ordered the UPPCB to submit a comprehensive and updated report on the current water quality, specifically focusing on the presence of faecal coliforms, and has instructed the board to expedite its monitoring efforts. The tribunal has also directed that a detailed action plan be put in place to address the pollution concerns and improve sanitation measures ahead of the Kumbh. These measures include the construction of more public toilets, waste collection systems, and stricter monitoring of water bodies during the event.

In response to the NGT’s criticism, the UPPCB has promised to take immediate corrective action. Authorities have assured that water quality monitoring will be ramped up, and the necessary steps will be taken to ensure the safety of the millions of pilgrims expected to attend the event. However, with less than a year left before the 2025 Kumbh, questions remain about whether these measures will be enough to address the scale of the environmental challenges posed by such a large-scale religious gathering.

Experts in water management and environmental science have echoed the NGT’s concerns, emphasizing the urgent need for better planning and coordination between various government agencies. They stress that while the Kumbh Mela is an important religious event, its environmental impact cannot be overlooked. Without proper measures to ensure water safety, the event could pose significant risks to public health.

As the Maha Kumbh 2025 draws closer, the NGT’s intervention serves as a wake-up call for the authorities to prioritize environmental sustainability and public health. The eyes of the nation will be on Uttar Pradesh, and the successful management of the event could set a precedent for how large religious gatherings can be organized in an eco-friendly and health-conscious manner. The challenge now lies in ensuring that the festival remains a spiritually enriching experience without compromising the safety and well-being of those who participate.