Ganga: The world’s only freshwater river with germ elimination 50 times faster, says expert

Ganga’s unique self-purification system unveiled

A groundbreaking study led by renowned scientist Dr. Ajay Sonkar has revealed that the Ganga River remains completely germ-free despite over 60 crore visitors taking holy dips during the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The research identifies the presence of 1,100 bacteriophages in the Ganga—microscopic viruses that naturally eliminate pollution and destroy harmful bacteria, making it the world’s only freshwater river with such a self-cleaning mechanism.

Role of bacteriophages in water purification

Bacteriophages, which are 50 times smaller than bacteria, act as natural purifiers. These microscopic organisms infiltrate bacteria, hack their RNA, and destroy them without harming beneficial microorganisms. During the Maha Kumbh, when hundreds of thousands of people take holy dips, the bacteriophages in the Ganga automatically activate upon detecting body-released germs, neutralizing them swiftly.

The study highlights that each bacteriophage can produce 100-300 new phages, continuing the elimination process in a rapid cycle. This highly selective targeting ensures that only harmful bacteria are destroyed, leaving the ecosystem’s beneficial microbes untouched.

Scientific collaboration and expertise

Dr. Sonkar, globally recognized for his research in cancer, genetic code, cell biology, and autophagy, has collaborated with prestigious institutions such as Wageningen University, Rice University, Tokyo Institute of Technology, and Harvard Medical School. His extensive work with Nobel laureate Dr. Yoshinori Ohsumi from the Tokyo Institute of Technology has advanced the understanding of cell biology and autophagy. Additionally, Dr. Sonkar has twice conducted research on cognitive fitness and sensitive guts at Harvard Medical School.

Natural mechanism similar to seawater purification

The study draws parallels between Ganga’s self-purification process and the ocean’s natural cleansing mechanism. “The specialty of bacteriophages is that they destroy only harmful bacteria,” the study states. “Each phage rapidly produces 100-300 new ones, which continue the attack, eliminating harmful bacteria introduced during bathing.”

Dr. Sonkar emphasized the medical potential of bacteriophages, particularly their selective targeting abilities, which could lead to breakthroughs in treating bacterial infections without harming beneficial gut flora.

A message from nature

Reflecting on the ecological significance of Ganga’s unique self-purification process, Dr. Sonkar interprets it as a message from nature. “Just as the Ganga maintains its existence through this natural cleansing process, humanity must learn to live in harmony with nature or face consequences,” he stated.

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