A recent report by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has confirmed that the water quality during the recently-concluded Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj was fit for bathing, based on statistical analysis.
The findings were submitted to the National Green Tribunal.
The CPCB conducted water monitoring twice a week from January 12 onwards at five locations on the Ganga river and two locations on the Yamuna river, including auspicious bathing days.
Despite variability in the collected data, the statistical analysis indicated that key parameters like pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and fecal coliform count (FC) were within permissible limits. The median values for these parameters were pH within criteria, DO at 8.7 milligrams per liter, BOD at 2.56 mg/L, and FC at 1,400 units per 100 ml.
However, the CPCB report highlighted the significant variability in water quality due to factors such as upstream human activities, rate of flow, depth and time of sampling, and river currents.
Previously, on February 17, the CPCB had reported to the tribunal that certain locations in Prayagraj did not meet primary water quality standards for bathing, specifically with regard to fecal coliform levels.
The matter is scheduled for a hearing on April 7.
