Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday condemned the spreading of “baseless allegations” and “fake videos” targeting Sanatan Dharma, Maa Ganga, India, and the Maha Kumbh. He stressed that such actions are an affront to the faith of millions who have gathered at the ongoing Mela in Prayagraj for a holy dip.
CM Yogi Adityanath also defended the quality of Sangam water, stating it is not only suitable for bathing but also for drinking. He dismissed the recent reports of faecal bacteria by the CPCB as part of a deliberate propaganda aimed at tarnishing the image of the Maha Kumbh.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) informed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Monday that several locations in Prayagraj, during the ongoing Maha Kumbh, failed to meet the primary water quality standards for bathing due to high levels of faecal coliform.
Faecal coliform bacteria are found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and humans. They serve as indicators of potential water contamination, as their presence suggests that the water may also contain harmful pathogens, including viruses, parasites, or other bacteria. These pathogens typically originate from faecal matter excreted by humans and animals.
“Questions are being raised about the quality of the water [at Triven]… All the pipes and the drains in and around Sangam have been taped and the water is being released only after purification… The UP Pollution Control Board is continuously monitoring the water to maintain its quality… As per today’s reports, the amount of BOD near Sangam is less than three, and the Dissolved Oxygen is around 8-9,” Yogi Adityanath said.
“This means that the Sangam is water is suitable not just for bathing but also for ‘Aachman’… The reasons for increased faecal coliform can be several, such as sewage leakage and animal waste, but the amount of faecal coliform in Prayagraj is, as per the standards, less than 2,500 MPN per 100 ml… This means that the false campaign is only to defame the Maha Kumbh… The NGT has also said that the faecal waste was less than 2000 MPN per 100 ml…,” CM Adityanath added.
