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39 sewage treatment plants on Musi River
Telangana Sanctions Rs 3,849 Cr for Musi River STPs
In a significant move to clean the Musi River, the Telangana government has sanctioned Rs 3,849.10 crore for the installation of 39 sewage treatment plants (STPs) at strategic locations along the river. These STPs will be set up under the jurisdiction of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and the outer-ring road limits, organized into three sewerage packages. Principal Secretary of Municipal Administration and Urban Development, Dana Kishore, issued the government order for this project on Saturday, August 3.
The ambitious project aims to address the long-standing issue of river pollution and improve the overall environmental health of the region. The 39 STPs will be established under a mix of public-private partnerships (PPP) and hybrid annuity model (HAM) packages to ensure efficient and timely implementation.
The first STP, under a public-private partnership, will be constructed at a cost of Rs 64.11 crore. The funding for this plant will be shared among the Centre, state, and the private sector, with contributions of 30%, 30%, and 40% respectively.
Sixteen more STPs will be installed under HAM Package-I, which is budgeted at Rs 1,878.55 crore. The financial responsibility for this package will be divided between the Centre, state, and HAM at 25%, 35%, and 40% respectively. These STPs will play a crucial role in treating sewage from densely populated areas, thus preventing untreated waste from entering the Musi River.
Under HAM Package-II, 22 STPs will be set up with an estimated cost of Rs 1,906.44 crore. The funding structure for this package mirrors that of Package-I, with the Centre, state, and HAM contributing 25%, 35%, and 40% respectively. These additional treatment plants will further extend the reach of sewage treatment, covering a broader area and ensuring more comprehensive pollution control.
The Telangana government‘s approval of this substantial budget underscores its commitment to environmental sustainability and public health. The initiative is part of the larger Musi Riverfront Development project, for which Rs 1,500 crore was allocated in this year’s state budget. This broader project aims to rejuvenate the Musi River, transforming it into a clean and vibrant waterway that enhances the quality of life for residents and supports biodiversity.
The Musi River, which flows through Hyderabad, has suffered from severe pollution due to untreated sewage and industrial waste. The new STPs are expected to significantly reduce the pollution levels by treating wastewater before it enters the river. This will not only improve water quality but also reduce the health risks associated with polluted water.
The strategic placement of these STPs will ensure maximum efficiency in sewage treatment, covering both densely populated urban areas and peripheral regions. The use of advanced technology in these plants will enable high levels of treatment efficiency, ensuring that the discharged water meets environmental standards.
The collaboration between the government and private sector in this project highlights a pragmatic approach to infrastructure development. By leveraging private sector expertise and investment, the project aims to achieve high-quality outcomes and timely completion. The HAM model, in particular, is designed to align the interests of all stakeholders, promoting long-term sustainability and operational efficiency.
The Musi Riverfront Development project, of which the STP installation is a part, envisions a transformed riverfront that includes green spaces, recreational areas, and improved urban infrastructure. This comprehensive approach aims to integrate environmental restoration with urban development, creating a harmonious and sustainable urban ecosystem.
As the project progresses, it will involve regular monitoring and evaluation to ensure that the STPs function effectively and deliver the intended environmental benefits. The government’s proactive stance and significant financial commitment reflect a strong resolve to address urban environmental challenges and enhance the living conditions for Hyderabad’s residents.
