IIT Indore finds severe pollution in drain affecting Kshipra river

IIT Indore's investigation has revealed alarming pollution levels in Nagdhaman Nala, which flows into the Kshipra river. The study found a lack of oxygen and high faecal bacteria levels, rendering the water unfit for recreational use ahead of the Simhastha 2028 pilgrimage. Despite these findings, the Madhya Pradesh government has yet to take action to address the pollution. The investigation, conducted in August, highlighted that the drain carries untreated household and industrial wastewater, with contamination levels exceeding national bathing water limits by over 200 times. Researchers noted a foul odour and severe degradation of water quality, raising concerns about public health. With the Simhastha pilgrimage approaching in less than a year and a half, there is growing urgency for the Madhya Pradesh government to respond to these environmental concerns.