The Ganga, India’s holiest river, has been revered for its spiritual significance and its supposed self-purifying abilities. However, a recent report by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has raised concerns over its water quality, revealing high levels of faecal coliform bacteria in the river at Prayagraj. This revelation comes at a crucial moment, coinciding with the Maha Kumbh festivities, where over 50 crore devotees have taken a holy dip in the river. The findings have reignited the debate between faith and science: Is the Ganga truly self-cleaning, or is pollution threatening its natural ability to purify itself?
The Science of Faecal Contamination
Faecal coliform bacteria are found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and humans. Their presence in water is a key indicator of contamination, often linked to the discharge of untreated sewage and human waste. These bacteria can carry harmful pathogens, including viruses and parasites, posing serious health risks to those who come in contact with the polluted water. The CPCB’s alarming report raises pressing questions about whether faith in the Ganga’s cleansing abilities is overshadowing serious public health concerns.
The Case for Ganga’s ‘Self-Purification’
Despite the concerns over contamination, some scientists argue that the Ganga possesses a unique natural defense mechanism—bacteriophages. These are viruses that selectively target and destroy harmful bacteria, playing a crucial role in the river’s self-purification process.
Dr. Ajay Sonkar, a researcher studying this phenomenon, describes bacteriophages as “security guards” that eliminate harmful bacteria introduced by millions of bathers at the Maha Kumbh. Unlike chemical treatments, bacteriophages do not disrupt beneficial microbial communities. This quality has led to their exploration in medical advancements, particularly in phage therapy as an alternative to antibiotics.
Historical Scientific Inquiry into Ganga’s Purity
The mystery of Ganga’s antibacterial properties is not new. In 1891, British bacteriologist Ernest Hankin observed an unusual pattern while studying cholera outbreaks along the river. Despite the disposal of bodies and sewage, cholera did not spread as aggressively as expected. He hypothesized that an unknown agent in the water was killing the bacteria before they could cause widespread infections.
In 1917, French scientist Félix d’Hérelle identified these agents as bacteriophages. His research confirmed that bacteriophages were responsible for neutralizing harmful bacteria, explaining the Ganga’s historical reputation for purity. Today, this discovery continues to fuel scientific curiosity about the river’s ability to cleanse itself naturally.
Pollution vs. Purification: The Modern-Day Challenge
Despite its self-purifying properties, the Ganga faces significant pollution threats. Industrial waste, untreated sewage, and chemical effluents continue to flow into the river, raising serious environmental and health concerns. While bacteriophages may help control bacterial contamination, they are not a solution for large-scale pollution caused by toxic chemicals and industrial waste.
The CPCB report highlights the urgent need for environmental policies that balance faith-based beliefs with scientific interventions. While the belief in the Ganga’s purity is deeply embedded in Indian culture, the reality of its pollution calls for immediate and sustainable solutions.
The Ongoing Debate: Faith vs. Science
The debate over the Ganga’s purity remains complex, with faith and science offering contrasting perspectives. While millions believe in the river’s divine ability to cleanse itself, scientists warn that increasing pollution levels are overwhelming its natural defenses. The presence of bacteriophages does offer some purification benefits, but it is not enough to counteract large-scale contamination.
To preserve the Ganga for future generations, a balanced approach is needed—one that respects religious sentiments while prioritizing scientific and environmental measures. Strengthening sewage treatment infrastructure, regulating industrial waste disposal, and promoting public awareness can help ensure that the Ganga remains both a sacred and safe river for all.
The Ganga’s self-purification ability, supported by bacteriophages, is a fascinating natural phenomenon. However, faith alone cannot safeguard its purity against modern-day pollution challenges. It is crucial to integrate scientific research with effective environmental policies to restore and maintain the river’s health. The question remains: Will faith and science come together to protect India’s most sacred river, or will pollution continue to undermine its legendary purity?
