Bihar Formulates Comprehensive Water Reuse Policy to Promote Treated Sewage Utilization
The Urban Development and Housing Department (UDHD) in Bihar is actively developing a detailed 'water reuse policy' designed to encourage the utilization of treated sewage water for non-potable applications throughout the state. This initiative marks a significant step towards sustainable water management and environmental protection.
Pilot Project in Patna to Demonstrate Practical Implementation
On a pilot basis, the Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (Buidco) is preparing to launch the plan this summer in Patna. The project involves redirecting treated wastewater from sewage treatment plants (STPs) for purposes such as greenery maintenance, irrigation, road washing, and other civic uses, instead of discharging it directly into the Ganga River.
Animesh Kumar Parashar, the Managing Director of Buidco, emphasized that while the broader policy framework is still under preparation, the corporation is focusing on immediate and practical actions in Patna to showcase the effective reuse of treated water. He highlighted two operational STPs located along Patna's Marine Drive (Loknayak Ganga Path) near LCT Ghat: the Digha STP with a capacity of 100 million liters per day (MLD) and the Danapur STP with a capacity of 25 MLD.
Strategic Diversion and Utilization Plans
Explaining the initiative further, Parashar detailed that the plan centers on diverting treated water away from direct discharge into the Ganga and channeling it through a dedicated network for productive applications. The water will be employed for:
- Irrigation of agricultural and urban green spaces
- Plantation and afforestation projects
- Road washing and sprinkling to reduce dust and maintain cleanliness
Additionally, hydrant facilities are proposed to load tankers for areas where laying pipelines immediately is not feasible. Parashar noted, "There are two options — creating a pipeline network, which is easier given the short distance between the plants, or setting up hydrant facilities for longer distances. This will not be limited to greenery along Marine Drive but will also cater to other parts of the city where green cover and related works are required."
Environmental and Conservation Benefits
The treated water meets the required standards for non-potable use and will contribute to conserving groundwater that is otherwise extracted through borewells. This effort supports urban beautification and aligns with environmental objectives under the Namami Gange programme, aimed at cleaning and preserving the Ganga River.
Implementation Timeline and Infrastructure Details
Implementation details of the pilot project, including pipeline routes, hydrant points, and coverage areas, are currently being finalized. Buidco aims to commence implementation as soon as the network is ready, with efforts focused on launching the system this summer to maximize benefits during the dry months when water demand for irrigation and greenery is at its peak.
Current STP Infrastructure Across Bihar
Buidco currently operates 19 functional STPs across Bihar, with 13 located in Patna district at sites such as Mokama, Barh, Bakhtiyarpur, and Fatuha. Other plants are situated in Munger, Chhapra, Bhagalpur, Begusarai, and Hajipur. Furthermore, nine STPs are under construction in Jamui, Supaul, Rohtas, Raxaul, and Motihari, while five are at the bidding stage. Presently, treated water from all functional STPs is being discharged into the Ganga, highlighting the urgency and importance of this new reuse initiative.
