Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday refuted concerns over water contamination at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, dismissing reports of faecal bacteria presence as an attempt to malign the sacred festival. He asserted that the Sangam’s water is not only safe for a holy dip but also fit for drinking.
Making baseless allegations or circulating fake videos against Sanatan Dharma, Maa Ganga, India, or the Maha Kumbh is like playing with the faith of crores of devotees who have taken a dip at the Mela,”
UP CM Yogi Adityanath
His remarks come in response to a Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) report submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which indicated that water at multiple locations in Prayagraj did not meet primary bathing quality standards due to high levels of faecal coliform bacteria.
Faecal coliform bacteria, commonly found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and humans, are used as indicators of water contamination, signaling the potential presence of harmful pathogens.
Addressing the concerns, Adityanath emphasized that strict measures have been implemented to maintain water quality.
All pipes and drains near Sangam have been sealed, and water is being released only after purification. The UP Pollution Control Board is continuously monitoring the water quality,
UP CM Yogi Adityanath
According to the latest reports, Adityanath claimed, the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) near Sangam is below 3, and the Dissolved Oxygen (DO) level is around 8-9, indicating healthy water conditions.

