What is Fecal Coliform Bacteria Found at Alarming Levels in Maha Kumbh’s Sangam Waters? Know The Risks and Side effects

According to the Central Pollution Control Board, there have been high levels of fecal bacteria found in Ganga water as millions of people continue to take a holy dip at Sangam during the Maha Kumbh 2025. Even though the Uttar Pradesh government has rejected the report, sewage contamination with fecal coliform, which holds the permissible limit of 2,500 units per 100 ml, is reportedly higher, as the CPCB informed the National Green Tribunal.

According to the report, the river is heavily polluted, mainly due to the dumping of large amounts of untreated sewage.

Experts say coliforms are bacteria that are present in the digestive tracts of animals, including humans and are found in their wastes. They are also found in plants and soil materials.

Coliforms and fecal streptococci are used as indicators of possible sewage contamination and even though they are not harmful, both the bacteria are concerning due to high levels of disease-causing pathogens, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency. Their presence in water indicates pathogenic microorganisms might also be there, posing major health risks.

According to experts, apart from health risks, high levels of fecal bacteria also lead to unpleasant odours, cloudy water, and increased oxygen demand. The most basic test for bacterial contamination of a water supply is the test for total coliform bacteria, the count of which gives a general indication of the sanitary condition of a water supply.

These include bacteria that are found in the soil, in water that has been influenced by surface water, and in human or animal waste.

These are the groups of the total coliforms that are considered to be present specifically in the gut and feces of warm-blooded animals. Because the origins of fecal coliforms are more specific than the origins of the more general total coliform group of bacteria, fecal coliforms are considered a more accurate indication of animal or human waste than total coliforms.

It is the major species in the fecal coliform group. Of the five general groups of bacteria that comprise the total coliforms, only E. coli is generally not found growing and reproducing in the environment. Consequently, E. coli is considered to be the species of coliform bacteria that is the best indicator of fecal pollution and the possible presence of pathogens.

Doctors say if you bathe in such waters, you can:

• Develop fever
• Nausea
• Stomach cramps

It happens because the pathogens enter your body via the mouth, nose, and ears. They can cause illnesses like typhoid, hepatitis, ear infections, gastroenteritis, and dysentery. Doctors say inhaling contaminated water droplets also leads to respiratory infections, especially among vulnerable groups like the elderly and young children.

Also, long-term exposure to pollution is linked to a higher risk of certain types of cancer, including bladder and colon cancer.

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