Lagatar24 Desk
Prayagraj: Amid rising health concerns over water contamination at the ongoing Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, a woman has been diagnosed with a severe lung infection after taking a dip in the Ganga. Dr. Dipshikha Ghosh shared the case on social media, warning devotees to be cautious.
“I have a patient right here with a severe lung infection from water from Kumbh having entered through her nostrils while she was taking a dip. She’s not being able to breathe on her own now and has had to be ventilated and proned. Religion is important, yes, but please don’t undermine science. Be aware. Be cautious,” Dr. Ghosh posted on X.
She further mentioned that the patient had developed a high-grade fever after her travels, and tests confirmed the presence of Salmonella in both her lungs.
Faecal Bacteria Found in Ganga Water
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was recently informed through a Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) report that the water quality in Prayagraj during the Mahakumbh does not meet bathing standards due to high levels of faecal coliform bacteria.
The report highlighted:
“The river water quality was not conforming to the primary water quality for bathing with respect to faecal coliform (FC) at all monitored locations on various occasions. A large number of people bathe in the river at Prayagraj during the Mahakumbh Mela, including on auspicious bathing days, which eventually leads to an increase in faecal concentration.”
Faecal coliform bacteria originate from the intestines of warm-blooded animals, including humans. Their presence in water is an indication of contamination from sewage or animal waste, significantly increasing the risk of waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, dysentery, and typhoid.
Yamuna River Also Affected
A similar contamination issue was reported in September regarding the Yamuna River. A Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) report revealed that faecal coliform bacteria levels had surged to 4,900,000 most probable number (MPN) per 100 milliliters, which is 1,960 times the permissible limit of 2,500 units and 9,800 times the desired limit of 500 units.
Health Risks & Precautionary Measures
Given the alarming bacterial presence in the Ganga, health experts have advised devotees to take precautions:
• Avoid submerging the head or ingesting water while taking a dip.
• Seek medical attention if experiencing fever, difficulty breathing, or gastrointestinal symptoms after bathing.
• Ensure vaccinations against typhoid and other waterborne diseases before visiting.
• Use bottled or purified water for drinking and hygiene.
With millions of devotees expected to take a dip in the coming days, health officials have urged authorities to monitor water quality closely to prevent further health hazards.
