Hyderabad Water Board plans reuse of treated sewage water
HYDERABAD: The Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board has prepared a comprehensive action plan to reuse treated sewage water within Greater Hyderabad for non-drinking purposes, including construction activity.
Focus on reducing groundwater use in construction
The plan aims to cut groundwater extraction and stop the use of potable water supplied by the water board for construction works. With water demand rising in the city and no additional water sources expected for at least two years, the board plans to divert treated sewage water for non-potable uses.
Officials said a dedicated policy and operational framework is being readied to enable reuse across sectors, while ensuring drinking water supplies are reserved strictly for domestic consumption.
Over 1,500 million litres a day sewage to be treated
The water board has set a target of treating 100% of the sewage generated in the city through sewage treatment plants. At present, 25 existing treatment plants process 772 million litres per day (MLD) of sewage, with the treated water being discharged into the Musi river.
In addition, projects have been taken up to treat 1,134 MLD through 21 new sewage treatment plants. All but seven of these plants have been completed, and more than half are already operational.
Under the AMRUT 2.0 programme, construction has begun on 39 additional sewage treatment plants with a combined capacity of 972 MLD.
Direct supply planned for large construction sites
Large-scale construction projects across Greater Hyderabad consume substantial quantities of water, particularly high-rise buildings. To reduce dependence on groundwater and potable water, the board plans to supply treated sewage water directly from nearby treatment plants.
Temporary pipelines or water tankers will be used to supply treated water to construction sites located close to sewage treatment facilities. Discussions are also underway with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation and the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority to use treated sewage water for gardens and public parks.
Officials said pricing for treated sewage water will be finalised soon.
