Sacred Devotion Amidst the Mahakumbh Over 500 million devotees gathered at the Mahakumbh Mela, embracing the deep reverence for the Ganga as a divine mother. Millions bathed in the holy waters, reflecting an unyielding faith. The spiritually charged event underscored the river's central role in Hindu beliefs and pilgrimage traditions.
Polluted Waters Conceal Hidden Dangers Water quality assessments revealed BOD readings significantly above safe bathing limits, with levels reaching up to 5 mg per litre. Faecal coliform counts soared to 49,000 MPN per 100 ml, far exceeding the acceptable maximum. Freshwater releases were used merely to dilute the high pollution rather than address its root causes.
Conflicting Data and Misleading Assurances Official agencies presented contradictory findings regarding the Ganga’s safety, with credible measurements exposing hazardous contamination. Outdated water samples were used to assert that the river was fit for drinking and bathing, despite fresh data indicating otherwise. The discrepancies in reports highlighted a troubling lack of scientific transparency and accountability.
Controversy Over Self-Purifying Claims A disputed research report claimed that bacteriophages in the Ganga provided self-purification by eliminating harmful bacteria. This claim was quickly amplified by government statements, even though it lacked peer-reviewed validation. Independent studies from reputable institutions confirmed the presence of significant disease-causing microbes, undermining the unverified assertions.
Public Health Risks and Unresolved Environmental Neglect The polluted river poses severe health hazards, with contaminants linked to skin diseases, gastrointestinal infections, and outbreaks of cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis. Medical reports from hospitals cited increases in diarrhea, vomiting, and unexplained fevers among the pilgrims. Despite billions spent on river-cleaning initiatives, efforts have consistently fallen short, leaving the public exposed to environmental dangers.