Sangam water fit for drinking: Yogi Adityanath

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath claimed that the water quality at Prayagraj during the ongoing Maha Kumbh was fit to take a dip and perform aachman (drinking holy water), while slamming the opposition for spreading propaganda that it was unfit for bathing. The remark by Adityanath comes amid a row over a Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) report that found alarming levels of 'fecal coliform' bacteria in the Ganga in Prayagraj.

Speaking in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, Adityanath said over 56.25 crore devotees have already taken a holy dip during the Maha Kumbh and several celebrities who have had a bath praised the arrangements.

"More than 56.25 crore devotees have already taken their holy dip in Prayagraj... When we make any baseless allegations or show fake videos against Sanatan Dharma, Maa Ganga, India, or the Maha Kumbh, it is like playing with the faith of these 56 crore people," the Chief Minister said.

Adityanath, citing Wednesday's Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPCB) report, said the Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) level was below 3 mg/litre and the Dissolved Oxygen (DO) level in the Ganga had improved from 5 mg/litre to around 9 mg/litre.