The Ganga river water in Haridwar has been classified as ‘B’ category by the Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board (UKPCB), meaning it is safe for bathing but unfit for drinking without treatment. This update comes as preparations for Maha Kumbh 2025 are underway.
“The November sample was tested on four parameters: pH, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, and total coliform bacteria. Based on this, the water falls under category ‘B’,” said Rajendra Singh, regional officer of UKPCB.
The board tests water monthly at eight locations near Haridwar, close to the Uttar Pradesh border. The classification system rates water from ‘A’ (least toxic and drinkable after disinfection) to ‘E’ (most toxic).
Local priest Ujwal Pandit expressed concern over pollution levels, blaming human activities. “When pure, Ganga water can cure diseases like cancer. But now, waste is compromising its quality,” he said.
The issue of river pollution is not limited to Haridwar. In Delhi, a layer of toxic foam was recently spotted on the Yamuna river, raising public health concerns.
Authorities are expected to take urgent steps to improve water quality ahead of the massive religious gathering in 2025.
