Ganga's Natural Purity: The Bacteriophage Phenomenon

Despite millions of visitors and ritual dips at Mahakumbh, the Ganga River remains germ-free thanks to 1,100 types of bacteriophages. These natural purifiers eliminate pollution, killing harmful bacteria and preserving Ganga's purity. Dr. Ajay Sonkar's study reveals their potential in medical applications, highlighting a harmonious coexistence with nature.

In a remarkable revelation, the Ganga River has been found to maintain its purity despite hosting over 60 crore visitors and numerous holy dips during the Mahakumbh festival. A study by leading scientist Dr. Ajay Sonkar reveals that the Ganga is unique among the world's freshwater bodies due to its natural presence of 1,100 types of bacteriophages.

Dr. Sonkar, honored with the Padma Shri and praised by former President APJ Abdul Kalam, unveiled this groundbreaking discovery, highlighting the bacteriophages' role in eliminating pollution and harmful bacteria. These phages, termed as Ganga's 'security guards,' possess an extraordinary ability to purify the river by killing pathogens, often altering their RNA.

The study explains that bacteriophages act precisely, targeting and neutralizing bacteria brought in during the mass bathing. Dr. Sonkar draws a parallel to oceanic self-cleaning processes, where these phages replicate rapidly, enhancing the river's defense against contamination. This discovery not only underscores Ganga's self-purifying prowess but also hints at their medical potential, emphasizing the need for human harmony with nature.

(With inputs from agencies.)