Kolkata, July 30 -- To encourage industries to reduce their dependence on freshwater, the West Bengal government has notified a policy proposing incentives and suitable pricing mechanisms to promote the use of treated wastewater for non-potable purposes, while directing Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and development authorities to constitute task forces for its implementation and monitoring.

The 'Safe Reuse of Treated Wastewater Policy of West Bengal', notified through the Kolkata Gazette, also mandates ULBs and development authorities to promote decentralised wastewater treatment and expand the safe reuse of treated wastewater across the state.

The policy was finalised after the Department of Urban Development and Municipal Affairs published a draft in March this year, invited public feedback and incorporated suggestions received from stakeholders before issuing the final policy.

It sets a target of reusing 20 per cent of treated wastewater by 2030 and 40 per cent by 2040, to reduce dependence on freshwater resources and promote sustainable water management.

The policy promotes the use of treated wastewater for non-potable purposes such as agriculture, horticulture, industrial processes, construction, landscaping, groundwater recharge and restoration of water bodies. It also seeks to minimise the discharge of treated wastewater into rivers and other water bodies by encouraging its productive reuse.

The ULBs have been tasked with implementing and operating small sewage treatment plants and decentralised wastewater treatment systems, while also promoting their establishment. Development authorities and other implementing agencies are required to identify potential users of treated wastewater and facilitate its safe utilisation.

The policy envisages regular monitoring of treated wastewater quality, adherence to prescribed standards, creation of a state-wide database and GIS-based planning, besides public awareness initiatives to encourage wider adoption of treated wastewater.

Future urban planning and wastewater infrastructure projects are also expected to integrate reuse systems as part of sustainable water resource management.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.