The Dangers of Faecal Contamination in the Ganga during Maha Kumbh As Lakhs Take Holy Dip: Understanding the Health Risks
The Dangers of Faecal Contamination in the Ganga during Maha Kumbh As Lakhs Take Holy Dip: Understanding the Health Risks
The Ganga River is of great religious significance, drawing millions of devotees who come to take a sacred dip in its waters, particularly during the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela. However, recent reports from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) have raised serious concerns about the presence of faecal coliform bacteria in the river at Prayagraj.
This bacterial contamination, mainly due to sewage discharge, poses significant health risks. Here’s what you should know about how faecal coliform impacts water quality and the dangers it poses to human health.
What exactly is faecal coliform, and why is it a cause for concern?
Faecal coliform bacteria are a group of microorganisms found in the intestines of humans and animals. Their presence in water indicates contamination from animal or sewage waste. While not all coliform bacteria are harmful, their presence suggests that the water may contain other dangerous pathogens, such as viruses, Salmonella, and E. coli. Exposure to these pathogens can lead to serious illnesses.
The contamination levels in the Ganga River at Prayagraj are quite alarming. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) states that the maximum acceptable level of faecal coliform in bathing water is 2,500 units per 100 millilitres. However, test results from various areas in Prayagraj during the Maha Kumbh Mela showed levels exceeding this limit, indicating serious pollution. This situation poses a significant risk of spreading waterborne diseases, especially with millions of people swimming in the river.
The problem is exacerbated by untreated sewage from surrounding regions, rendering the water unsafe for direct human contact.
Exposure to faecal bacteria can lead to several health issues, including:
- – Skin and eye infections: Contact with contaminated water can result in rashes, eye irritation, and fungal infections.
- – Typhoid and hepatitis A: These serious infections can be contracted through the ingestion of contaminated water, potentially leading to long-term health complications.
- – Gastrointestinal infections: These can manifest as symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, and stomach cramps, often caused by pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella.
- – Respiratory issues: Inhaling water droplets containing bacteria can result in lung infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Dr. Ankur Jain, Senior Consultant & Unit Head, Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Endoscopy, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka “The presence of faecal bacteria in the Ganga River, especially in Prayagraj, poses a significant threat to both human health and the environment. Despite being considered a sacred river, the Ganga is heavily polluted due to industrial waste, untreated sewage, and open defecation practices. This faecal contamination significantly contributes to the pollution, making the water highly pathogenic. The bacteria found in the river can lead to various waterborne diseases, including cholera, typhoid, and dysentery. Additionally, coming into contact with contaminated water increases the risk of skin infections, respiratory issues, and parasitic infections like amoebiasis. Prolonged exposure to these pollutants has also been linked to a higher risk of developing colon and bladder cancer.”
What impact does this have on pilgrims and local communities?
The immediate danger for devotees who take ritual dips in the river lies in the risk of inhaling or swallowing contaminated water. Many of these devotees may not be aware of the health risks involved. Furthermore, long-term exposure to harmful bacteria is a concern for nearby residents who use the river for daily activities like cooking and drinking. Those with weakened immune systems, the elderly, and children are particularly at risk.
Dr. Chandani Jain Gupta, a dermatologist and aesthetic physician at Elantis Healthcare in New Delhi, explains that faecal bacteria originate from the waste of humans and animals. When these bacteria contaminate water, food, or surfaces, they pose significant health risks. Infections can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever. In severe cases, particularly in young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems, these infections may result in dehydration. Additionally, contact with contaminated water or surfaces can cause skin infections like folliculitis, abscesses, or cellulitis. Individuals with cuts or open wounds are at a higher risk for bacterial skin infections, which can typically be treated with antibiotics. However, some antibiotic-resistant bacteria linked to faecal contamination can lead to difficult-to-treat infections, highlighting the importance of prevention. To avoid infection, it is crucial to maintain good hygiene, wash hands frequently, and ensure access to clean drinking water and uncontaminated food.
In terms of measures being taken by the authorities, they are encouraging akharas to adhere to specific schedules and to clear the ghats for cleaning in a timely manner. Devotees are also advised against throwing shoes and clothes into the river. Additionally, organizers are providing cloth bags and stainless steel utensils to help minimize plastic waste.
