The Central Pollution Control Board has confirmed serious water pollution in a report, saying that there is a large amount of fecal coliform bacteria in the Ganges and Yamuna in Prayagraj
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — Devotees returning from the recently concluded Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj have reported cases of skin infections, raising concerns over water pollution in the Ganges and Yamuna. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) had earlier confirmed serious contamination in these rivers, but the Uttar Pradesh government has denied any health hazards linked to the festival.
Many devotees who attended the Kumbh Mela, which concluded on 26 February, are now experiencing skin-related medical issues. Dermatologists have pointed to water pollution as a potential cause of these infections.
Dr. Yashwant Lal, a dermatologist at Laxmi Clinic in Ranchi in Jharkhand, reported an increase in patients suffering from itching, rashes, and fungal infections. “Several people returning from the Kumbh Mela have complained of constant itching and skin irritation. In most cases, fungal infections are responsible, which may be due to wet clothes, unhygienic conditions, and shared facilities at the festival,” he said.
The concerns over water pollution were backed by a CPCB report submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on 3 February. The report highlighted alarmingly high levels of fecal coliform bacteria in the Ganges and Yamuna in Prayagraj.
According to the findings, the water at multiple sampling points failed to meet the minimum standards for bathing. “The level of fecal coliform bacteria has exceeded the permissible limit at all sample collection sites, making water unsafe for direct human contact,” the report stated.
Experts warn that high levels of fecal coliform bacteria indicate the presence of human and animal waste in the water, leading to potential health risks such as skin infections, gastrointestinal diseases, and other medical complications. During the Kumbh Mela, lakhs of devotees took a ritualistic dip in the river, increasing their exposure to contaminants.
Despite mounting evidence and growing health concerns, the Uttar Pradesh government has refuted claims of water pollution and related health hazards. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak dismissed reports of infections, stating that no such cases had been registered at hospitals associated with the Kumbh Mela.
“I have heard fake news about the contamination of Ganga water and claims that taking a holy dip during the Maha Kumbh can cause health issues. I oversee the Health Ministry and check hospital registers daily. Not a single case of any skin disease has been recorded after bathing in the Sangam, not even a boil or a pimple,” he asserted.
In response to the situation, the NGT has criticised the Uttar Pradesh government’s assessment of the river water quality, citing a lack of detailed analysis. The tribunal has directed the state government to submit updated reports on water quality from various locations at the fair venue within a week.
