New Delhi, Feb 18 (Reporter) The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has expressed serious concerns over increasing faecal bacteria levels in the Ganga at Prayagraj, particularly during the Maha Kumbh Mela. The findings were highlighted in a recent report submitted by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The key findings submitted by the CPCB report indicate that a significant rise in faecal coliform bacteria was observed during the Maha Kumbh Mela. According to the report, the river water quality failed to meet bathing standards concerning Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) during tests conducted on January 12-13. The water quality also did not conform to primary bathing standards regarding faecal coliform at multiple monitoring points. The surge in faecal contamination was directly linked to the massive influx of pilgrims, especially on auspicious bathing days. Despite the operational status of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), contamination levels spiked sharply during the Shahi Snans and other major rituals. The report emphasised that the sudden and overwhelming number of devotees taking a holy dip overloaded the existing waste management infrastructure, leading to an exponential rise in bacteria levels. Inadequate sewage disposal mechanisms and improper waste handling were also cited as contributing factors to the declining water quality. In response to the alarming pollution levels, the NGT, led by Justice Prakash Shrivastava (former Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court), has summoned officials from the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) to explain the measures taken to control water pollution. The tribunal had earlier directed the UPPCB to submit a detailed compliance report, but the board only provided water quality test results, which confirmed high faecal contamination. Dissatisfied with the partial response, the NGT has granted additional time for submission of a comprehensive report and mandated the presence of key UPPCB officials in the next hearing scheduled for February 19. The monitoring of water quality and sewage treatment at Prayagraj has been under strict NGT oversight since December 2024. The tribunal had previously issued orders for enhanced monitoring of water pollution, sewage treatment, and waste management, following concerns about untreated sewage being discharged into the Ganga and Yamuna. With the Maha Kumbh drawing large crowds, the tribunal continues to push for stricter pollution control measures to safeguard the holy river’s ecological health...////...