NGT Warns Uttar Pradesh Over Kumbh Mela Open Defecation: How it Affects Public Health

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) issued notice to the Uttar Pradesh government, Prayagraj Mela Authority and the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board in response to claims that poor sanitation arrangements at the Kumbh Mela have resulted in open defecation along the banks of the Ganga river, Bar and Bench reported on February 22.

The notice follows an application by Nipun Bhushan, who demanded Rs 10 crore in environmental compensation from the Uttar Pradesh government over poor sanitary facilities. The application cited a water quality test from November 2024, which showed faecal coliform levels at the Triveni Sangam at 3,300 MPN (Most Probable Number) per 100 millilitres, exceeding the Environment Ministry's benchmark of 2,500 MPN/100 ml, reported India Today. The application also indicated that the state failed to protect and improve the environment under Article 48A of the Constitution.

On February 14, a bench led by Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and Expert Member Dr A Senthil Vel directed the authorities to respond a week before the next hearing,  scheduled for Monday.

Read More: High Faecal Coliform Levels in Prayagraj during Mahakumbh: CPCB Report to NGT

Faecal Coliform Levels Exceed in Ganga

On February 17, another report from NGT revealed the increased levels of faecal coliform in the Ganga, declaring the water unfit for bathing.

According to The Hindu, an NGT order dated February 17 quoted the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) report, indicating that the river’s water quality did not meet the primary water quality for bathing. This was due to high faecal coliform levels at all the monitored locations, particularly affecting those bathing in the river during the Mahakumbh Mela.

A quality assessment report was submitted to the NGT by the CPCB on February 3, based on samples collected on January 12, 13, 14, 15, and 19. The report revealed that total coliform levels consistently exceeded the prescribed standards, reported Mint.

Read More: Yamuna Illegal Sand Mining: NGT Issues Notice to Bodies in Suo Motu Case

How Does Faecal Coliform Bacteria Affect Health?

Faecal coliform bacteria are microorganisms typically found in the excreta of animals and humans. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), coliforms are bacteria that live in the intestines of warm-blooded animals.

Bathing in water contaminated with faecal coliform bacteria can lead to several health issues including gastrointestinal infections, skin and eye infections, typhoid and hepatitis A and respiratory issues.