What Makes the Ganga Purest Freshwater River in the World?

The Ganga, one of the holiest rivers in India, has been scientifically proven to possess a unique self-purification ability. Despite millions of devotees taking holy dips during events like the Maha Kumbh, the river remains germ-free due to special bacteriophages. A groundbreaking study led by Padma Shri Dr. Ajay Sonkar has revealed that these bacteriophages naturally cleanse the water, making Ganga the only freshwater river in the world with such remarkable self-purification properties.

Why Ganga is the Most Freshwater River in the World?

A recent scientific study uncovered that Ganga water contains 1,100 types of bacteriophages, which act as natural purifiers by eliminating harmful bacteria and pollutants.

What are the unique properties of Ganga's self-purification mechanism?

The Ganga River possesses a remarkable self-purification mechanism primarily driven by bacteriophages—microscopic viruses that infiltrate harmful bacteria, hijack their RNA, and destroy them. This process plays a crucial role in maintaining water purity. Notably, bacteriophages in the Ganga eliminate germs 50 times faster than usual, significantly reducing microbial contamination. Additionally, this purification is highly targeted, as bacteriophages selectively attack harmful bacteria while preserving beneficial microorganisms, ensuring ecological balance. The river’s self-cleansing ability mirrors oceanic purification processes, where natural microbial interactions contribute to sustained water quality. Furthermore, each bacteriophage rapidly reproduces 100-300 new ones, ensuring a continuous cycle of bacterial elimination and long-term water purity. This unique natural system makes the Ganga one of the few rivers with such an efficient self-purification ability.

What is the role of bacteriophages in Ganga's purification?

Source: sciencedirect

Bacteriophages play a crucial role in Ganga’s purification by targeting harmful bacteria, destroying them, and ensuring sustained water quality. Here is given in detail:

• Natural Water Cleansers: Bacteriophages, though 50 times smaller than bacteria, are highly effective in eliminating them. These microscopic entities act as 'security guards' for the river, ensuring water purity.
• During the Maha Kumbh: With millions bathing in the river, bacteriophages detect and neutralize harmful germs released from human bodies. Each phage rapidly multiplies (100-300 new phages per cycle), continuing their purifying action.
• Selective Elimination: Bacteriophages target only harmful bacteria, leaving beneficial microorganisms unharmed.

Scientific Validation and Expert Insights

Dr. Ajay Sonkar, a global expert in cancer research, genetic code, cell biology, and autophagy, has conducted extensive research to validate the purity of the Ganga. His collaborations with Wageningen University, Rice University, Tokyo Institute of Technology, and Harvard Medical School further reinforce the credibility of these findings.

Expert Opinions

• Nature has provided humanity with a valuable lesson through the Ganga River's self-purification abilities, according to Dr. Ajay Sonkar. He believes that just as the river maintains its purity, humans should also strive to coexist peacefully with the natural world.
• Scientific Reports: Studies highlight the alkaline nature of Ganga water, which supports bacteriophage survival and enhances purification.

Comparison with Other Freshwater Bodies

Cultural and Environmental Significance

The Ganga holds immense religious, economic, and ecological value, revered by millions while also playing a crucial role in sustainability and biodiversity.

• Religious Importance: Worshipped by millions, the Ganga is integral to Indian spirituality and rituals.
• Economic Impact: Maha Kumbh and religious tourism contribute ₹3 lakh crore to the economy.
• Environmental Message: The Ganga’s natural ability to stay clean highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices worldwide.

Government Response & CPCB Concerns

The Uttar Pradesh government issued an official statement quoting Dr. Sonkar’s study to counter concerns raised by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) regarding the river's water quality. It asserted that the Ganga’s water remains pure and alkaline despite the large influx of devotees at the Maha Kumbh.

Conclusion

Scientific research has confirmed that the Ganga is the only freshwater river in the world with an advanced self-purification system powered by bacteriophages. This discovery challenges pollution concerns and emphasizes the river’s unique ecological and cultural importance. Protecting and preserving this natural marvel is crucial for future generations.