The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has called on the Uttar Pradesh government, the Prayagraj Mela Authority, and the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UP PCB) to address alarming sanitation concerns at the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. Allegations suggest that a severe lack of sanitary facilities has forced thousands of pilgrims to defecate openly along the Ganga’s banks, raising major environmental and public health concerns.
A petition submitted to the NGT demands ₹10 crore in environmental compensation from the state, citing large-scale pollution and a failure to provide adequate toilet facilities. The plea, backed by video evidence, argues that the state has neglected its duty under constitutional environmental protections. Despite official claims of bio-toilets being installed, their availability and functionality appear insufficient for the massive crowds.
Water quality tests from late 2024 revealed that Fecal Coliform levels at the Sangam downstream reached 3,300 MPN per 100 milliliters, surpassing the safe limit set by environmental authorities. With risks of diseases like cholera and hepatitis A looming over millions of devotees, concerns about transparency and accountability in pollution monitoring have intensified.
The NGT has directed officials to submit their responses before the next hearing on February 24.