Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said Wednesday (February 19, 2025) dismissed concerns over the presence of faecal bacteria in the river water in Prayagraj where people took holy dip during the ongoing Maha Kumbh.

Speaking in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, he said the water at the Sangam Nose, the point where the Ganga meets the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati, is fit for drinking.

“Issues have been raised about the quality of the water there (Sangam, Maha Kumbh). Water there is released after purification. Pipes and drains in and around Sangam are taped. The State Pollution Control Board is regularly checking the water to maintain its quality. As per today’s reports, the amount of BOD (biochemical oxygen demand) near Sangam is less than three, and the dissolved oxygen is around 8-9. It signifies that that the Sangam is water is suitable not just for bathing but also for aachman [a holy dip in which devotees also sip the water],” said Mr. Adityanath.