Ganga Water Declared Unfit for Ritual Sipping Ahead of Mahakumbh, Reports Pollution Control Board

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh - July 21, 2024

As Prayagraj prepares for the Mahakumbh in January 2025, a report from the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board has raised serious concerns about the water quality of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. The board's alarming findings indicate that the water is not suitable for drinking or even for the religious act of 'Achaman,' which involves sipping a palm full of water during rituals.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued notices to both the central and state governments following this report. The NGT will hold its next hearing on September 23, 2024.

The pollution control board's investigation was prompted by a plea from high court lawyer Sorup Tiwari, who questioned the cleanliness of the Ganga. The board discovered that numerous drains are discharging water into the Ganga and Yamuna, causing significant pollution. It was reported that Prayagraj alone generates 289 million liters of sewage per day through 81 drains, of which 128 million liters is untreated sewage flowing directly into the river basins.

Despite the Mahakumbh being just a few months away, no significant steps have been taken to address the flow of contaminated water into these holy rivers. The Mahakumbh is the world's largest congregation of pilgrims, with millions taking a sacred dip in the river.