Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath asserted in the state legislature that the water at the Sangam in Prayagraj is suitable for both bathing and ceremonial drinking (aachman). He cited findings from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) to support his claim, refuting concerns that the water contains high levels of fecal bacteria.
Adityanath stated that water quality at the Sangam is consistently monitored by regulatory authorities and meets acceptable standards. He further emphasized that the fecal coliform levels recorded at the site in January and February remained below 2,500 MPN per 100 ml, which falls within the permissible limits for safe use.
Political Crossfire Over River Pollution
Taking a swipe at the opposition Samajwadi Party (SP), the chief minister alleged that during its rule, the condition of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers had deteriorated significantly. He claimed that the state of pollution was so severe in 2013 that the then prime minister of Mauritius declined to take a holy dip at the Kumbh Mela.
In contrast, Adityanath highlighted his government’s efforts in river cleaning, stating that currently, 261 million liters per day (MLD) of sewage are being treated by 81 tapped sewer outlets, significantly improving water quality. “The 2025 Maha Kumbh is being organized on a grand scale with better facilities and well-thought-out planning, unlike the corruption and mismanagement that plagued the 2013 event under the SP government,” he said.
Allegations of Mismanagement in 2013 Kumbh
The chief minister also pointed to past administrative failures, particularly referencing the Prayagraj railway station stampede during the 2013 Maha Kumbh. He blamed the then Congress-led state administration for mishandling the situation and criticized the opposition for targeting the current government’s Maha Kumbh preparations.
According to Adityanath, a 2014 report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) had exposed widespread corruption in the funds allocated for the 2013 Maha Kumbh, further alleging that the state government at the time did not receive adequate financial support from the Centre.
With the 2025 Maha Kumbh approaching towards its conclusion, the government remains firm in its claim that the event is being planned with utmost precision to ensure safety, hygiene, and a better spiritual experience for devotees. Meanwhile, opposition leaders continue to question the administration’s claims and the effectiveness of its water purification measures.
