UP CM Yogi Declares Sangam Water Fit for Drinking, Calls Faecal Bacteria Report ‘Propaganda’ Against Maha Kumbh

UP CM Yogi Declares Sangam Water Fit for Drinking: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has brushed off fears regarding the water quality at Sangam during the current Maha Kumbh, declaring that allegations of faecal bacteria contamination were simply another means to defame the grand religious gathering. Addressing the Uttar Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday, CM Adityanath asserted that this water is not only good for a pious dip but also drinkable as it flows from the confluence of the holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati.

These comments referred to the response from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), which had informed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that the water quality in different areas of Prayagraj at the time of the Maha Kumbh was not up to primary bathing standards owing to high fecal coliform bacteria levels. Such bacteria, usually found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and humans, present contamination and serious health hazards in the environment.

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CM Yogi’s Response

Rejecting the findings, CM Yogi Adityanath stated, “Spreading falsehoods and circulating fake videos against Sanatan Dharma, Maa Ganga, India, or the Maha Kumbh is akin to playing with the faith of crores of devotees. The world has witnessed the grandeur of this event, and despite attempts to defame it, the Maha Kumbh has achieved unparalleled success.”

As part of his defense, The chief minister emphasized the role of the Government of Uttar Pradesh in the event: the Maha Kumbh belongs to society and not to any political party or organization, spiritual and cultural event. “The government is merely a servant fulfilling its responsibilities. It is our privilege to be associated with this century’s Maha Kumbh,” he said.

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Central Pollution Control Board’s Report

The CPCB report raised concern over health risks concerning contamination in water, which was primarily attributed to various untreated sewage discharge causes. Gastrointestinal diseases and diverse infections and health complications ensue from exposure to faecal coliform bacteria. Clean water becomes essential for the devotees who ritualistically dip into the river. CM Yogi Adityanath, however, rebuffed such warnings and reassured the public of water safety, accusing dissenters of indulging in malicious propaganda against the event.

Meanwhile, millions of pilgrims continue arriving at Prayagraj for the fête, and thus the debate about the quality of Sangam waters remains a hot topic, catching the eye of environmentalists, health gurus, and political leaders alike.

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