Synopsis
Professor Umesh Kumar Singh from Allahabad University disputes the CPCB report claiming Ganga water at Sangam is unfit for bathing. He argues the data shows otherwise, calling for a re-evaluation of the findings.Key Takeaways
- Professor Umesh Kumar Singh challenges CPCB report on Ganga water quality.
- Claims water at Sangam is safe for bathing.
- Calls for re-evaluation of data by CPCB.
- Highlights discrepancies in reported faecal coliform levels.
- Previous reports compared with current water quality standards.
New Delhi, Feb 22 (NationPress) Professor Umesh Kumar Singh from the University of Allahabad expressed skepticism regarding a report from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) that indicated the Ganga water at the Sangam is unsuitable for bathing.
Highlighting what he described as a “mismatch” in data and challenging the controversial CPCB findings, Singh informed IANS that the water quality is indeed suitable for bathing. “You can bathe in it.”
According to Professor Singh, upon reviewing the data, he noted that the levels of dissolved oxygen were satisfactory. “The water is suitable for bathing. The BOD level is also visible. However, the CPCB has reported faecal coliform levels in a significantly exaggerated manner. I believe CPCB should disclose its data sources,” he stated.
The CPCB report titled “Mahakumbh 2025” addresses various topics including River Water Quality, Sewage Treatment Plant performance, and Wastewater Treatment processes.
Presented to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), the CPCB report claimed that faecal coliform bacteria levels in Ganga water have risen in Prayagraj during the Maha Kumbh, resulting in increased pollution levels that exceed standard thresholds.
The report, dated January 12, 2025, includes data on pH levels, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), turbidity, and faecal coliform concentrations from Ganga and Yamuna water samples gathered from various locations, including Sangam and Deeha Ghat.
Professor Singh urged the CPCB to re-evaluate their data, suggesting they collect samples anew for accurate checking. “They should determine the reason behind the data discrepancies,” he said.
He pointed out that if sewage and industrial waste were entering the Ganga and Yamuna, the nitrate and phosphate levels should rise. “However, the CPCB has not reported this in their data. Furthermore, when individuals bathe, a variety of bacteria may enter the water. The faecal coliform figures appear exaggerated, while DO and BOD levels are well within acceptable limits, raising questions about this data,” he commented.
Previously, Acharya Jaishankar, a former IIT graduate who abandoned a lucrative career in the US for spirituality, also refuted the CPCB's claims on 'polluted water' in the Ganga, particularly in Prayagraj, the location for Maha Kumbh.
Speaking to IANS, Acharya Jaishankar challenged the CPCB report's findings, stating that the water at Sangam is suitable for bathing and is an improvement compared to earlier times during his college days.
