A recent report by the Central Pollution Control Board has revealed alarmingly high levels of faecal coliform bacteria in the Ganga waters in Prayagraj, where millions are gathering to take a holy dip at the Maha Kumbh Mela.

"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," he added. He accused the opposition of running a "false campaign" to defame the Kumbh Mela.

High levels of faecal bacteria found in river Ganges as millions take Kumbh dip - Pollution concerns rise as millions take ritual dips in the Ganges

As devotees flock to Prayagraj for Maha Kumbh 2025, the CPCB report has raised alarm over high levels of faecal coliform bacteria in Ganga water, exceeding safe limits.

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath denied reports of Ganga river contamination during the Maha Kumbh Mela, stating that the UP Pollution Control Board is closely monitoring water quality.

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday dismissed reports of faecal bacteria in the Maha Kumbh waters, calling them an at.

The Ganga water at Triveni Sangam is unsafe for bathing due to high Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels. Current BOD readings exceed the safe limit of 3 mg/L, prompting concerns from environmental officials amidst the ongoing Maha Kumbh pilgrimage,

According to Central Pollution Control Board data, the BOD level at Sangam was 3.94 milligrams per litre on January 13, when the Maha Kumbh started.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), in its recent report to the National Green Tribunal revealed that high levels of faecal coliform (mixing of human or livestock excreta) were found in its river water testing at locations where people from across the nation are taking a dip during the Maha Kumbh.