Environmental Scientists Declare Sangam Water Fit for Bathing

• Scientists challenge CPCB’s report on Ganga water quality.
• Experts from JNU and two other universities question the findings.
• Report deemed incomplete; lacks data on nitrates and phosphates.
• Dissolved oxygen levels indicate Ganga’s water is suitable for bathing.
• Alkaline nature of water signals a healthy aquatic ecosystem.

Mahakumbh Nagar, February 21: While millions of devotees are taking a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam during Mahakumbh, a recent report by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) raised concerns about the Ganga’s water quality. However, leading environmental scientists have disputed the report, calling it incomplete and expressing doubts about how certain aspects were presented. They pointed out that key parameters such as nitrate and phosphate levels were not included, making it unreliable for assessing overall water quality. Based on scientific analysis, they affirmed that the Sangam’s water remains suitable for bathing.

On Friday, experts including Dr. Amit Kumar Mishra from JNU’s School of Environmental Sciences, Prof. Umesh Kumar Singh from Allahabad University, and Dr. R.K. Ranjan from Central University of South Bihar, collectively stated that the Ganga’s water remains alkaline, which is a positive indicator of water quality. They further emphasized that dissolved oxygen levels in the river support aquatic health and confirm its suitability for bathing.

Coliform Bacteria Presence Not Unusual

Addressing concerns about fecal coliform contamination, Dr. Amit Kumar Mishra of JNU stressed the need for a more extensive dataset. He noted that the presence of coliform bacteria is common, especially during peak pilgrimage events. Citing past data from the Amrit Snan, he pointed out that E. coli levels tend to rise temporarily but do not necessarily make the water unsafe. According to him, a dissolved oxygen level of 3 micrograms per liter is considered safe for bathing, and variations observed at Sangam Ghats remain within acceptable limits.

CPCB Report Lacks Complete Data

Prof. Umesh Kumar Singh of Allahabad University criticized the CPCB report for failing to mention nitrate and phosphate levels, which are critical indicators of pollution. While the report flagged higher fecal coliform levels, it confirmed that dissolved oxygen levels were good, reinforcing that the Ganga remains fit for bathing.

Declaring Ganga Water Unsafe Is Premature

Dr. R.K. Ranjan of Central University of South Bihar noted that CPCB’s data had inconsistencies and that declaring the water unsafe for bathing was premature. He emphasized that water quality assessments should consider sampling location, time, and external factors, such as the large number of pilgrims bathing simultaneously.

Despite the ongoing debate, scientists remain confident that Sangam’s waters remain safe for devotees, making concerns over pollution largely misinterpreted or exaggerated.