Maha Kumbh Pollution Concerns in Prayagraj

The Maha Kumbh Mela, religious gathering in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has raised alarming environmental concerns. As millions flocked to take holy dips, reports indicated severe pollution in the Ganges River. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) brought into light critical issues regarding water quality. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) reprimanded the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) for its negligence. This situation poses a risk to public health and the environment.

Background of the Maha Kumbh

The Maha Kumbh Mela is a major Hindu pilgrimage occurring every 12 years. It attracts millions of devotees who believe that bathing in the sacred rivers cleanses them of sins. The event impacts local infrastructure and environmental conditions.

Water Quality Issues

The CPCB’s report revealed alarming water quality levels. Inspections conducted in January 2025 showed high biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) levels. BOD measures the amount of oxygen required by microorganisms to decompose organic matter in water. Elevated BOD indicates severe pollution. Additionally, faecal coliform bacteria levels were excessively high, signalling contamination from human and animal waste.

Impact of Untreated Sewage

Despite operational sewage treatment plants (STPs), around 53 million litres per day of untreated sewage flowed directly into the Ganges. This situation arose due to STPs operating beyond capacity, making effective treatment impossible. The untreated sewage contributes to the river’s pollution, endangering public health.

NGT’s Intervention

The NGT’s intervention on February 16, 2025, brought into light the UPPCB’s lack of action. The tribunal questioned why no measures were taken to address pollution before the Maha Kumbh began. The NGT demanded accountability from UPPCB, which failed to provide satisfactory explanations regarding the pollution crisis.

Health Risks

The high levels of faecal coliform bacteria present a substantial risk of waterborne diseases. Conditions such as typhoid, cholera, and diarrhoea can spread rapidly in contaminated water. The ongoing pollution poses a severe threat to the health of millions attending the Kumbh.

Local Community Impact

Villagers near the Ganges rely on the river for irrigation and religious practices. The discharge of treated water from STPs into the river raises concerns about water quality. The ineffective treatment of sewage further exacerbates the pollution problem, affecting local ecosystems and community health.

Future Measures

Addressing the pollution crisis requires urgent actions. Effective management of sewage treatment facilities is essential. The implementation of stringent treatment standards set in 2019 must be enforced. Continuous monitoring of water quality is necessary to protect public health and the environment.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the impact of religious gatherings on local environments and public health.
2. Critically examine the role of regulatory bodies in managing water pollution in India.
3. What are the health implications of high faecal coliform levels in water bodies? Explain.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the challenges faced by sewage treatment plants in urban areas.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the impact of religious gatherings on local environments and public health.

1. Mass gatherings, like the Maha Kumbh, increase waste generation and water usage.
2. Environmental degradation occurs due to pollution from sewage and waste disposal in rivers.
3. Public health risks rise due to waterborne diseases from contaminated water sources.
4. Infrastructure strain leads to inadequate sanitation and waste management systems.
5. Local ecosystems can be disrupted, affecting biodiversity and water quality.

2. Critically examine the role of regulatory bodies in managing water pollution in India.

1. Regulatory bodies like the CPCB and UPPCB are responsible for monitoring and enforcing water quality standards.
2. Failures in timely action and effective regulation can lead to severe pollution issues, as seen in Prayagraj.
3. Inadequate infrastructure and resources hinder the implementation of pollution control measures.
4. Regulatory bodies must ensure compliance with environmental laws and standards set by the government.
5. Public accountability and transparency are essential for effective governance in pollution management.

3. What are the health implications of high faecal coliform levels in water bodies? Explain.

1. High faecal coliform levels indicate contamination from human and animal waste, posing serious health risks.
2. Waterborne diseases, such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhoea, can spread rapidly in affected populations.
3. Vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly, are at higher risk of severe health outcomes.
4. Contaminated water sources can lead to long-term health issues and increased healthcare costs.
5. Public awareness and access to clean water are crucial to mitigate health risks associated with pollution.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the challenges faced by sewage treatment plants in urban areas.

1. Many STPs operate beyond their designed capacities, leading to ineffective treatment of sewage.
2. Inadequate infrastructure and funding limit the ability to upgrade or expand treatment facilities.
3. Example – The Pong Ghat STP in Prayagraj failed to meet basic treatment standards during the Kumbh.
4. Contamination from untreated sewage directly discharged into rivers exacerbates pollution problems.
5. Coordination between various governmental bodies is often lacking, leading to fragmented efforts in pollution management.