Enteropathogenic bacteria in river Ganges in Varanasi

Area of Science:

• Environmental microbiology
• Public health
• Water quality assessment

Background:

• The Ganges River in Varanasi is a vital water source but faces pollution challenges.
• Previous efforts to mitigate pollution have been implemented.
• Assessing the bacteriological quality is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive bacteriological study of the Ganges River in Varanasi.
• To identify the presence and prevalence of enteropathogenic bacteria in water samples.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of sewage management strategies on river water quality.

Main Methods:

• Collected 407 water samples from December 1985 to November 1987.
• Sampled from bathing ghats (335) and sewage openings (72).
• Examined samples for the presence of various enteropathogenic bacteria.

Main Results:

• Isolated Vibrio cholerae 0-1, Non 0-1 Vibrio cholera, Vibrio fluvialis, Aeromonas sp., Plesiomonas sp., Salmonella sp., and Shigella sp.
• Detected other bacteria including Pseudomonas sp., Proteus sp., and E. coli.
• Significant bacterial presence found in both bathing ghats and sewage openings.

Conclusions:

• Ganges River water in Varanasi is bacteriologically unsafe for bathing and drinking.
• Existing sewage discharge and diversion methods have failed to improve water quality.
• The river poses a significant health hazard to the local population and visitors.