Ganga Water Shows Higher Oxygen, Lower Pollution During Maha Kumbh: CPCB Report

New Delhi: The water quality of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers in Prayagraj recorded better levels of dissolved oxygen during Maha Kumbh , according to the latest data revealed by the Central Pollution Control Board.

As per the findings in the report, Dissolved Oxygen remained above 8.5 mg/L, which is significantly higher than the minimum requirement of 5 mg/L. 

Higher Oxygen, Lower Pollution Recorded in Ganga

Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), which is a measure of how much oxygen is needed to break down organic matter in water, was recorded between 2.5 and 3.2 mg/L, staying within safe bathing standards.

Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) is a measure of how much oxygen is needed to break down organic and inorganic compounds in water. It was maintained between 10 and 15 mg/L, reflecting lower industrial and chemical pollutants.

(CPCB data reveals better level of Oxygenation in Ganga and Yamuna) 

Also Read: Ganga Water At Mahakumbh Sangam Safe On Several Key Parameters, Data Shows

The lower COD levels indicated reduced industrial and chemical pollutants, confirming the effectiveness of pollution control regulations on industrial discharge.

CPCB, in its report, also mentioned that strict enforcement of effluent norms for industries along the Ganga basin led to a 30% reduction in chemical pollutants.

(Devotees return after taking a dip during the ongoing Maha Kumbh/ANI)

Turbidity, which measures water clarity, ranged from 50–65 cm during Maha Kumbh. According to CPCB, turbidity should be above 50 cm for improved water clarity (anything above 65 cm indicates pollution). 

CM Yogi Refuted Opposition Claims Over Contamination Levels

Earlier this week, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath dismissed the concerns raised by the opposition over the fecal contamination in water at Sangam. 

"Questions are being raised about the quality of the water (at Triveni)...All the pipes and the drains in and around Sangam have been taped, and the water is being released only after purification," UP CM Yogi informed the Assembly on February 19. 

While assuring the Assembly over the safety limits of water in the Triveni Sangam, UP CM Yogi Adityanath accused the opposition of running a “misleading” campaign over the contamination levels.