Ahead of the upcoming Maha Kumbh, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has flagged significant concerns about the safety of Ganga water, citing alarming pollution levels that could threaten public health during the religious event. The tribunal has issued directives to relevant authorities to take urgent measures to improve the water quality and prevent contamination, particularly given the large number of devotees expected to bathe in the river during the Kumbh.
The NGT's warning comes at a time when authorities are working to prepare for the massive influx of pilgrims for the Maha Kumbh, which is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. The tribunal has emphasized the importance of ensuring the river’s sanctity and safety, urging local and national agencies to step up their efforts in cleaning the river and monitoring pollution levels.
Pollution in the Ganga, especially in certain stretches, has long been a source of concern, with untreated sewage, industrial effluents, and waste being major contributors to the contamination of its waters. The NGT has been actively involved in overseeing the river’s restoration efforts, but the ongoing challenges of managing water quality have raised alarm among environmentalists and public health experts.
The tribunal’s intervention highlights the critical need for improved water management systems and stronger regulatory measures to protect the river and its devotees. With the Maha Kumbh approaching, ensuring the safety of the river’s water will be a key priority for the authorities, who are expected to take further steps to ensure the health and safety of millions of pilgrims.
