The water quality at Triveni Sangam in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj has been deemed “unsafe” for bathing due to elevated levels of Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), according to a fresh report by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The report, submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on February 3, highlights concerns over water pollution during the ongoing Maha Kumbh 2025.
High BOD Levels Raise Concerns
The CPCB data revealed that on January 13, the day Maha Kumbh began, the BOD level at Sangam was recorded at 3.94 milligrams per litre—exceeding the permissible limit of 3 milligrams per litre for safe bathing. BOD is a crucial indicator of water quality, representing the amount of oxygen required by microorganisms to break down organic material. A higher BOD level suggests increased organic pollution.
The CPCB report noted that water quality monitoring on January 12-13 showed non-compliance with bathing standards at most locations in Prayagraj. However, after January 13, the organic pollution levels started to decrease due to the influx of freshwater at upstream locations. By January 19, water quality at most places met the required bathing standards, except at Lord Curzon Bridge on the Ganga.
Efforts to Improve Water Quality
To address the issue, the Uttar Pradesh government has been releasing 10,000 to 11,000 cusecs of water into the Ganga to improve its quality and ensure it meets bathing standards for the ongoing religious event.
Millions Take the Holy Dip Despite Concerns
Despite initial concerns over water quality, millions of devotees continue to take a dip in the Sangam, believing in the spiritual purification associated with the Maha Kumbh. The festival, which began on January 13, will conclude on February 26. According to the Uttar Pradesh government, over 54 crore people have participated in the holy ritual so far.
Sources By Agencies