Flawed STP design in Chitrapuri raises concerns over Musi River revival
HYDERABAD: Residents and experts have raised environmental and planning concerns about the functioning of the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at Chitrapuri Colony. They allege that authorities have poorly monitored the plant and designed it in a way that contradicts the natural flow of sewerage in the area.
Although the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) granted approval to Chitrapuri Colony on the condition that the colony maintain its own STP, sources indicate that authorities have not effectively monitored or evaluated the plant’s performance, which raises serious environmental red flags.
In a critical assessment, Sitaram Dhulipala, BRS party Manikonda president, pointed out that authorities have proposed a design to divert sewer water to the STP at Chitrapuri that is both impractical and technically questionable.
Explaining the technical aspect, Dhulipala explained, “The natural flow of sewerage begins from Lanco Hills, passes through Panchavati Colony, Malkam Cheruvu, Shaikpet Nala, OU Colony, and finally reaches Neknampur Pedda Cheruvu. How can an STP located at a higher altitude in Chitrapuri effectively treat and manage this downstream flow? This situation raises fundamental doubts about the viability of the design.”
In addition to the design concerns, Dhulipala also warned that ongoing works on Bulkapur and Pandenvagu may not deliver the desired results. He said the current design does not adequately handle the high velocity of combined sewer and rainwater flows during peak monsoon seasons. “This could lead to overflow, inefficiency, and further environmental stress,” he said.
Suggesting solutions, to address these challenges, Dhulipala called for an urgent, decentralized, and practical approach. He recommended constructing a small check dam at Road No. 10, Panchavati Colony, so authorities can divert treated water into Shaikpet Nala, flow it further towards Tolichowki and beyond, and allow only excess treated water to enter Pandenvagu and eventually reach Neknampur Pedda Cheruvu. He emphasized the benefits, “Such an approach would ensure controlled flow, better utilization of treated water, and reduced environmental burden,” he asserted.
Without proper scientific planning and coordination, Dhulipala warned that these efforts will fail to achieve their intended purpose. “The larger goal of rejuvenating the Musi River risks remaining only a distant vision,” he said.
He urged all concerned departments, including HMDA, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB), Irrigation, and the Commissioner of Municipal Corporation (CMC), to come together, utilize available data, and undertake a comprehensive, technically sound study to deliver sustainable and effective outcomes. “A well-planned intervention today can prevent long-term environmental damage tomorrow,” Dhulipala added.
