KOLKATA: The state Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Department has announced the ‘West Bengal State Policy on Safe Reuse of Treated Wastewater’. This policy aims to mandate residential housing units to maximize the reuse of treated wastewater for non-potable purposes. Additionally, for industrial applications, the goal is to source at least 20% of total water needs from municipal wastewater by 2030.
The authorities had previously developed a draft to promote safe and sustainable reuse of treated wastewater across the state.
According to the final notification, all residential buildings constructed post-environmental clearance must prioritize the reuse of treated wastewater. This policy also encourages multi-storied buildings, gated communities, public buildings, commercial establishments, hotels, airports, and major railway stations to adopt similar practices.
The draft further suggests the establishment of a comprehensive database and an effective management information system using GIS technology. This system will facilitate the continuous assessment of water demand, wastewater generation, and the reuse of treated wastewater across various sectors while mapping the operational status and location of treatment facilities.
To enable the creation of a GIS-enabled management information system within urban areas, the policy recommends conducting technical surveys to assess underground water, surface water, water supply, and sewer lines. Each urban local body is required to develop urban water and wastewater resource management plans along with wastewater treatment plants.
Moreover, the policy emphasizes that the state government should foster partnerships with thermal power plants located within a 50 km radius of urban centers for the efficient uptake of all available wastewater treatment resources.
