The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, one of the largest religious gatherings globally, is facing serious issues due to troubling reports about the water quality of the holy rivers. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has indicated that the river water in Prayagraj fails to meet the required bathing quality standards because of high levels of faecal coliform. Nevertheless, millions of devotees are still participating in ritualistic dips in the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, which raises significant public health concerns.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, celebrated every 12 years, draws millions of pilgrims who believe that bathing at the meeting point of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the legendary Saraswati can wash away sins and provide spiritual liberation. This year, more than 543 million devotees have already taken part in the ritual bathing since the festival commenced on January 13, highlighting the profound cultural and religious importance of the event. However, the declining water quality presents a serious risk, not just to the health of the pilgrims but also to the river’s ecosystem.
The CPCB’s report highlighted that faecal coliform levels in the river are significantly above the acceptable limits. These bacteria, which come from human and animal waste, signal contamination that can result in serious waterborne illnesses like diarrhoea, dysentery, cholera, and hepatitis. The pollution is mainly due to untreated sewage, industrial discharges, and poor waste management.
India has implemented various laws and policies to protect the integrity of its rivers. One of the first significant pieces of legislation was the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, which aimed to control and prevent water pollution. This act led to the creation of the Central Pollution Control Board and State Pollution Control Boards, responsible for monitoring water quality and regulating pollutant discharges. Furthermore, the Environment Protection Act, of 1986, gives the government the authority to take strict actions against industries and municipalities that contribute to river pollution. In response to the declining health of the Ganga, the government initiated the Namami Gange Programme in 2014, a comprehensive project with a budget exceeding ₹20,000 crores. This program emphasizes sewage treatment, cleaning the river’s surface, monitoring industrial effluents, and improving rural sanitation. Nevertheless, despite these initiatives, the water quality in Prayagraj remains alarmingly poor, highlighting shortcomings in policy implementation and enforcement.
Several factors have led to the failure of Prayagraj’s river water to meet bathing standards. A major source of pollution is untreated sewage discharge, as many towns and cities along the Ganga lack adequate sewage treatment facilities. The CPCB reports that nearly 70% of the sewage produced in these cities goes untreated and flows directly into the water bodies. Additionally, industrial waste from local firms, textile factories, and chemical plants is released into the river, despite regulations requiring effluent treatment. The situation worsens during the Maha Kumbh, when thousands of devotees immerse idols, floral offerings, and other ritual items into the river, contributing to the pollution. Furthermore, sand mining and unchecked encroachments along the riverbanks disrupt the natural flow, diminishing the river’s ability to purify itself.
Recently, authorities have implemented emergency measures, including increasing water flow from upstream reservoirs to help dilute pollution levels. Local administrations have also established temporary sewage treatment plants and ramped up waste collection efforts. To ensure clean and safe river water for future Maha Kumbh Melas and everyday use, a comprehensive strategy is essential. This includes strict enforcement of regulations, and imposing heavy fines on industries and municipalities that do not meet sewage and effluent treatment standards. It’s vital to upgrade sewage infrastructure by expanding and modernizing treatment plants throughout the Ganga basin to minimize direct waste discharge into the river. Raising community awareness and encouraging participation through public campaigns can educate people on responsible waste disposal and the environmental effects of religious offerings. Promoting the adoption of eco-friendly technologies in industries and ensuring effective waste management can greatly reduce pollution levels. Furthermore, the CPCB and local pollution control boards should consistently monitor water quality and provide real-time data to maintain accountability and transparency.
The Maha Kumbh Mela holds a significant place in India’s cultural and religious heritage, yet its continuation should not jeopardize public health or lead to environmental harm. Although the government has launched various policies and initiatives aimed at cleaning the Ganga, their success has been hindered by inadequate implementation and enforcement. Tackling these issues demands immediate action, strong political commitment, and a united effort from all parties involved to restore the sanctity of India’s sacred rivers. Only then can future generations enjoy this historic tradition without risking their health and well-being.
Written by Ratisha Khare
