Chandigarh: Chandigarh’s citywide tertiary treated (TT) water network is nearing completion, with the municipal corporation having laid about 165km of pipelines and completed nearly 95% of the project under its treated water reuse initiative.




The remaining work largely relates to installation of machinery and other allied infrastructure, with pipeline laying almost complete across the city, barring a few pockets. The update was shared by the MC during a recent review of National Green Tribunal-related matters chaired by the UT chief secretary .




The project assumes significance as the civic body seeks to boost consumption of treated wastewater. Records show Chandigarh currently generates about 51.1 million gallons per day (MGD) of tertiary treated water through its sewage treatment plants , but only around 10 MGD is being utilised. The city’s estimated requirement is about 20 MGD.




Officials said the treated water is intended to replace potable water for non-drinking purposes such as horticulture, irrigation, maintenance of green belts and roundabouts, construction activities and certain industrial uses. Rich in nutrients, the treated water is also considered suitable for landscaping and gardening applications.




Chandigarh has eight sewage treatment plants with a combined capacity of nearly 56 MGD, six of which are operated by the MC. Three older plants at Diggian, Raipur Kalan and Raipur Khurd have been substantially rebuilt with upgraded technology, while facilities near 3 BRD and Dhanas have also been modernised.




Officials said the long-term objective is to reduce dependence on drinking water for irrigation and other non-potable uses, thereby conserving precious freshwater resources across the city.



FROM SEWAGE TO SUPPLY



Pipeline network completed: 95%



TT pipelines laid: 165 km



TT water generated daily: 51.1 MGD



Current utilisation: 10 MGD



Estimated city demand: 20 MGD



Total STPs: 8



Combined STP capacity: Nearly 56 MGD