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How Builders Can Meet Pollution Control Board Norms About Sewage Treatment?
Understanding the Importance of Sewage Treatment for Builders
As a builder in Karnataka, Telangana or Maharashtra, you know that meeting regulatory requirements is crucial for the success of your projects. One of the key areas you must focus on is sewage treatment. Proper sewage treatment is not only a legal requirement but also a critical aspect of safeguarding public health and protecting the environment.
Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) working under the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) is the Policy making body. State Pollution Control Board is the implementing authority and they have the power to modify the norms within their State to suit local requirements.
The Pollution Control Board (PCB) in each state has set stringent norms for sewage treatment to ensure that untreated wastewater doesn’t harm the environment. Unfortunately, many small builders struggle to navigate these regulations due to a lack of knowledge and the perceived complexity of sewage treatment processes. In this blog, we will help you understand the norms and guide you on how to comply effectively.
Pollution Control Board Norms: What Builders Need to Know
1. What Are Pollution Control Board Norms?
Pollution Control Boards in each state, including the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), and Telangana State Pollution Control Board (TSPCB), are responsible for regulating the discharge of wastewater to prevent environmental contamination.
Builders are required to install Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) to treat wastewater generated from residential and commercial projects before releasing it into the environment.
The main requirements typically include:
– Consent to Establish (CTE): This permit must be obtained before the construction of an STP.
– Consent to Operate (CTO): This permit allows you to start operating the STP after installation.
– Effluent Quality Standards: Treated sewage must meet specific parameters (such as Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)) before it can be discharged or reused.
2. Common Requirements for Builders in Karnataka, Telangana, and Maharashtra
Capacity Requirements: The required STP capacity depends on the size and type of your project. For instance, residential projects generating more than 10 KLD (kiloliters per day) of wastewater must have an STP on the project site.
Water Reuse: Treated wastewater must be reused for non-potable purposes, such as gardening, flushing, or car washing, to promote sustainability and reduce strain on freshwater resources. Water reuse norms are very strict in Karnataka.
Regular Monitoring: Builders are also required to regularly monitor and report the quality of treated effluent to ensure compliance.
In large projects, MoEF has made it mandatory for builders / developers to operate STP for at least 5 years.
Steps to Comply with Pollution Control Board Norms for Sewage Treatment
Get Familiar with Local PCB Guidelines
The first step in ensuring compliance is to get familiar with the specific guidelines of the Pollution Control Board in your state. Each state may have slightly different norms, but the primary goal remains the same: to prevent untreated wastewater from contaminating the environment.
For builders in Karnataka, Telangana, and Maharashtra, it is important to:
– Contact the regional PCB office to obtain a copy of the guidelines.
– Consult with environmental experts or STP suppliers to understand the specific requirements for your project.
– Visit the official PCB websites for updates on rules and regulations:
– Karnataka: [KSPCB Official Website](https://kspcb.gov.in)
– Telangana: [TSPCB Official Website](https://tspcb.cgg.gov.in)
– Maharashtra: [MPCB Official Website](https://mpcb.gov.in)
Select an Appropriate Sewage Treatment Technology
The next crucial step is to select the right sewage treatment technology that meets the compliance requirements while keeping costs manageable. Here are some common technologies available:
– Membrane BioReactor (MBR)
– MBBR (Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor)
– SBR (Sequencing Batch Reactor)
– Activated Sludge Process (ASP)
– Advanced Hybrid Technology (like Johkasou)
Learn more about various Sewage Treatment Technologies here
It is important to select a technology that aligns with your project’s capacity, budget and maintenance requirements. Consulting with STP suppliers or environmental engineers can help in identifying the best solution for your project.
Obtain Necessary Permits
After selecting the technology, you need to apply for the necessary permits from the PCB:
Consent to Establish (CTE): Submit an application with details about the project, the selected STP technology, and an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report if required.
Consent to Operate (CTO): Once the STP is installed, you must apply for the CTO. The PCB will inspect the STP and verify that it meets all standards before granting the permit.
The permit process typically involves:
Documentation: Site layout plans, project details, Water Sources, Wastewater Treatment Equipment and Water balance and excess water disposal plans
Fees: Permit fees vary based on the project size and the state. This starts at 0.05% of the project cost.
Ensure Proper Installation and Maintenance
Proper installation and maintenance of the STP are crucial for ensuring compliance. Hiring a reputable supplier or contractor to install the STP is essential to ensure that the plant operates efficiently and meets PCB norms.
Installation: Ensure that the STP is installed according to the design specifications and guidelines provided by the PCB. This minimizes the chances of errors and ensures optimal performance.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance of the STP is essential to ensure compliance with PCB norms. Maintenance activities typically include cleaning of the bar screen, sludge removal, and ensuring that all mechanical components are functioning properly.
Benefits of Compliance: More Than Just Avoiding Fines
- Avoid Legal Penalties
The most immediate benefit of complying with PCB norms is avoiding fines, penalties, or even legal action. Non-compliance can lead to significant project delays and additional costs.
- Boost Project Credibility
Having a functional STP in your project adds to its credibility. Homebuyers today are more conscious of environmental sustainability and prefer properties that contribute positively to the environment. A compliant STP can be a strong selling point.
- Contribution to Environmental Sustainability
By treating and reusing wastewater, you contribute to sustainable water management, reduce the burden on freshwater resources, and prevent pollution of local water bodies. This not only benefits the community but also enhances your reputation as a socially responsible builder.
- Long-Term Cost Savings
Although setting up an STP involves an upfront investment, it can lead to long-term savings by enabling the reuse of treated water for non-potable purposes. This reduces the dependency on freshwater supplies and cuts down water procurement costs.
Common Challenges Builders Face in Meeting PCB Norms
- Lack of Awareness
Many small builders are not aware of the specific PCB requirements for sewage treatment. This lack of awareness can lead to delays in obtaining permits and result in non-compliance.
- High Costs of STP Installation and Maintenance
The cost of setting up and maintaining an STP is often seen as a burden by builders. However, the long-term benefits, such as water reuse and compliance, can offset these costs over time.
- Space Constraints
Builders often face challenges in allocating space for an STP, especially in small residential projects. Choosing a compact sewage treatment solution can help address this issue.
- Technical Complexity
Many builders find sewage treatment technologies complex and difficult to understand. Consulting with environmental experts or STP suppliers can help demystify the technical aspects and ensure that the right technology is chosen for the project.
Best Practices for Builders to Ensure Compliance
- Start Early
Start the process of obtaining permits and selecting an STP technology early in the project planning phase. This will give you enough time to address any issues that may arise and ensure that all PCB requirements are met.
- Work with Reputable Suppliers
Choose a reputable STP supplier or contractor with experience in designing and installing sewage treatment systems that comply with PCB norms. This will ensure that the system is designed and installed properly, reducing the risk of non-compliance.
- Focus on Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring that the STP continues to operate efficiently and meets PCB standards. Establish a maintenance schedule and work with qualified professionals to ensure that all maintenance activities are carried out properly.
- Document Everything
Keep detailed records of all permits, inspections, maintenance activities, and reports. This will help you demonstrate compliance in case of an inspection by the PCB.
FAQ –Common Questions Small Builders Have About PCB Norms
How Size of the STP calculated?
In any project STP capacity is based on the number of users or residents. For example in any residential project, each individual is expected to generate 135 litres of sewage every day. One BHK house / flat is considered equivalent to 3 people, 2 BHK 4 people, 3 BHK 5 people and 4 BHK 6 people. Based on the number of 1 BHK, 2 BHK and 3 BHK flats in a project, the total number of people is arrived at. This number is multiplied with 135 to get the required STP capacity. For a clubhouse an additional 5000 litres of sewage is added for arriving at STP capacity.
How Much Does It Cost to Set Up and Maintain an STP?
The cost of setting up an STP varies based on the technology used, but builders should consider both the initial investment and the ongoing maintenance costs. Opting for energy-efficient and low-maintenance solutions can help reduce overall costs.
Can Treated Water Be Reused? What Are the Regulations Around It?
Yes, treated water can be reused for non-potable purposes, such as gardening, flushing toilets, and car washing. The PCB encourages water reuse to promote sustainability, and the treated water must meet certain quality standards.
Take the First Step Towards Compliance Today
Meeting Pollution Control Board norms for sewage treatment may seem challenging at first, but with the right technology and guidance, it can be a straightforward process. Compliance not only helps you avoid penalties but also adds value to your projects, enhances your reputation, and contributes to a healthier environment.
Take the time to understand the requirements, select the right sewage treatment solution and work with experienced professionals to ensure that your project meets all PCB norms.
It’s an investment that will pay off in terms of cost savings, customer satisfaction and long-term sustainability.
Suresh Kumar
With over two decades in the water treatment business, I pioneered bulk pure water distribution and now lead the way in sustainable sewage treatment with easySTP, inspired by Japan’s Johkasou technology. My vision includes widespread adoption and expansion through a new factory and sewage academy.
About Our Author
Suresh Kumar
With over two decades in the water treatment business, I pioneered bulk pure water distribution and now lead the way in sustainable sewage treatment with easySTP, inspired by Japan’s Johkasou technology. My vision includes widespread adoption and expansion through a new factory and sewage academy.