The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recently submitted a report to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) regarding the water quality of the Ganga River. This report was based on monitoring conducted in January 2025. The findings brought into light issues concerning Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Fecal Coliform (FC) levels, especially during the Maha Kumbh Mela.
Monitoring Results
The CPCB’s monitoring took place on January 12-13, 2025. The results showed that the river water quality did not meet bathing criteria at many locations. However, a positive trend was observed as organic pollution levels began to decrease after the intrusion of freshwater upstream. By January 13, BOD levels met bathing criteria, except near the Lord Curzon Bridge.
Fecal Coliform Levels
The report indicated that all monitored locations failed to meet primary water quality standards for bathing concerning Fecal Coliform. The high number of bathers during the Maha Kumbh Mela contributed to increased faecal concentrations. This raised concerns about public health and safety.
Geo-Tube Filtration Sites
Seven Geosynthetic Dewatering Tubes (geo-tubes) were operational at Prayagraj. CPCB teams verified the installation and treatment processes. Twenty-one drains were treated under this system. However, sample analysis revealed that all sites were non-compliant with the prescribed norms set by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG).
Tribunal Proceedings
The NGT, led by Justice Prakash Shrivastava, reviewed the CPCB’s findings. High levels of faecal and total coliform were detected at various locations. The Uttar Pradesh State authorities were directed to respond to these findings. The Tribunal is addressing grievances regarding untreated sewage discharge into the Ganga and Yamuna rivers.
Enhanced Monitoring Measures
To mitigate the impact of untreated sewage during the Maha Kumbh, the Tribunal ordered the CPCB and Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) to enhance monitoring efforts. They are required to increase the number of monitoring points and frequency of sampling. Water samples must be collected at least twice a week. Results will be made publicly available on the UPPCB and CPCB websites.
Importance of Clean Water
The quality of water in the Ganga River is crucial for the health of millions. It is essential for both ecological balance and public health. Continuous monitoring and effective treatment of sewage are vital to ensure the safety of those who come to bathe in these sacred waters.
Future Actions
The CPCB and UPPCB will implement the Tribunal’s directives to improve water quality. Regular updates on the performance of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) and geo-tubes will be provided. This effort aims to protect the health of pilgrims and the ecological integrity of the rivers.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the impact of the Maha Kumbh Mela on water quality in the Ganga River.
- Critically examine the role of the National Green Tribunal in addressing environmental issues in India.
- What are the primary causes of water pollution in major Indian rivers? Explain with suitable examples.
- What measures can be taken to improve sewage treatment in urban areas? Discuss in the light of the challenges faced.
Answer Hints:
1. Discuss the impact of the Maha Kumbh Mela on water quality in the Ganga River.
- Increased number of bathers during the event raises faecal concentrations in the river.
- Monitoring during the Mela showed that water quality did not meet bathing criteria at many locations.
- High levels of Fecal Coliform were detected, posing public health risks.
- Organic pollution levels initially increased but later decreased due to freshwater intrusion upstream.
- Tribunal measures aimed to enhance monitoring to protect pilgrims from contaminated water.
2. Critically examine the role of the National Green Tribunal in addressing environmental issues in India.
- NGT provides a platform for addressing grievances related to environmental violations.
- It has the authority to enforce compliance with environmental laws and regulations.
- NGT directs agencies like CPCB to enhance monitoring and take corrective actions.
- It plays important role in public interest litigation concerning water and air quality issues.
- NGT’s decisions impact policy-making and implementation of environmental protection measures.
3. What are the primary causes of water pollution in major Indian rivers? Explain with suitable examples.
- Untreated sewage discharge from urban areas is a major contributor, e.g., Ganga and Yamuna.
- Industrial effluents released without proper treatment contaminate river water, impacting ecosystems.
- Agricultural runoff containing fertilizers and pesticides leads to nutrient pollution.
- Religious and cultural practices, such as immersion of idols, add to the pollution load.
- Urbanization and population growth increase pressure on water resources and waste management systems.
4. What measures can be taken to improve sewage treatment in urban areas? Discuss in the light of the challenges faced.
- Investing in modern and efficient Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) to handle increased waste.
- Implementing decentralized waste management systems to reduce load on central facilities.
- Enhancing public awareness and participation in waste management initiatives.
- Ensuring strict enforcement of regulations against illegal sewage discharge.
- Addressing funding and technological challenges through public-private partnerships.
