3,700 cusecs water released in Ganga: UP tells HC

Allahabad, Jan 11 (UNI) Uttar Pradesh today informed the Allahabad High Court that keeping in view Ardh Kumbh Mela at Allahabad, at present 3,700 cusecs water is being released in river Ganga.

The above statement was given by UP advocate general before a bench comprising Chief Justice A N Ray and Justice Ashok Bhushan, while hearing a PIL filed by Harichaitnya Brahmchari Maharaj.

In the petition, a prayer to keep river Ganga free of pollution had been made along with a prayer that adequate water be maintained at Sangam, Allahabad.

The court has directed to ensure that during the Ardh Kumbh, the released water should come to Sangam without any tapping.

Fixing January 18 for further orders, the court observed that the earlier order restraining release of dirty water (effluent) at Kanpur by tanneries shall continue.

Appearing on the petitioner's behalf, A K Gupta submitted the water at Sangam is still dirty and red in colour.

Meanwhile, advocate general S M A Kazmi submitted that he himself was monitoring the entire episode.

On behalf of the centre, additional solicitor general Ashok Nigam informed the court that as per report of central water commission, the level in Ganga is same as it was in 2005.

UNI