UPPCB Defends Water Quality in Prayagraj Before NGT

The board asserted that water quality monitoring data indicates compliance with prescribed norms. There is only a slight exception at one location.

Prayagraj: The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) has defended the water quality of the Ganga. They have also defended the Yamuna rivers in Prayagraj. This was done in an affidavit submitted before the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The board asserted that water quality monitoring data indicates compliance with prescribed norms. There is only a slight exception at one location.

Water Quality Achieves Bathing Standards, Says UPPCB

The levels of Dissolved Oxygen (DO) in the Ganga and Yamuna at Prayagraj are generally adequate. The levels of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Fecal Coliform (FC) are also generally adequate. They usually meet the Primary Water Quality Criteria for Bathing Water. The factors in these rivers usually align with the criteria. The board emphasized that no untreated or polluted sewage is being directly discharged into the rivers through drains.

UPPCB acknowledged a slight increase in BOD and Fecal Coliform levels. This was observed at the downstream of Shastri Bridge on the Ganga. This, it said, is an isolated case, while the rest of the monitored locations continue to meet environmental standards.

Increased Monitoring Post-NGT Order

The NGT issued an order in December. The UPPCB has intensified its water quality monitoring efforts as a result.
• Six sampling points have been designated on the Ganga and Yamuna in Prayagraj.
• Water samples are collected and analyzed twice a week from these points.
• The reports are regularly uploaded on the UPPCB website for public access.

STP and Third-Party Reports Confirm Compliance

The board further stated that analysis reports of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) confirm compliance. Geo-tubes also meet prescribed pollution control norms. Third-party analysis conducted by the Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology (MNNIT) Prayagraj has also corroborated these findings.

The Urban Local Bodies (ULB) Jal Nigam (Urban), Prayagraj has informed that the sludge from treatment facilities is being stored in Geo-tubes. All sludge is now being stored there. The sludge will only be extracted once the tubes are fully filled.

UPPCB’s Commitment to Pollution Control

The UPPCB reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring clean river water and maintaining transparency in monitoring efforts. The board assured the NGT that it would continue to strengthen pollution control measures and take corrective action wherever necessary.

The affidavit comes amid growing concerns over high Fecal Coliform levels in the river, especially at certain points. The UPPCB’s submission aims to address these concerns and reinforce confidence in its water quality management efforts in Prayagraj.