India Expands Sewage Treatment Capacity Under Namami Gange Mission
In a remarkable advancement towards improving water quality and enhancing urban sanitation, the operationalization of five new sewage infrastructure projects marks a significant milestone under the Namami Gange Mission Phase II. As of the third quarter of FY 2025–26, a total of nine projects have been launched, bolstering sewage treatment capacity across critical urban areas.
The newly commissioned projects have increased the total sewage treatment capacity under the Namami Gange Programme to 3,976 million litres per day (MLD) and have raised the total number of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) to 173. These initiatives emphasize the mission’s key aim: to prevent untreated sewage from contaminating rivers and to enhance the urban sanitation landscape.
Significant Developments in Uttar Pradesh
In Shuklagunj, Uttar Pradesh, the completion of a 5 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant, built at a cost of ₹65 crore, represents a pivotal development. This project, utilizing Sequential Batch Reactor (SBR) technology, is expected to benefit approximately 300,000 residents by effectively intercepting and diverting sewage from entering the River Ganga.
Agra’s Progress in Sewage Management
Meanwhile, Agra, a key city along the Yamuna, has seen the commissioning of two STPs with capacities of 31 MLD and 35 MLD. These installations, part of the Pollution Abatement Works project in Agra and sanctioned at a combined cost of ₹842 crore, will help serve nearly 2.5 million residents. The project aims to substantially reduce untreated sewage flow into the River Yamuna, significantly improving sanitation in the city.
Enhancements in Varanasi
Varanasi has also made strides with the commissioning of a 55 MLD STP at Assi-BHU, sanctioned at ₹308 crore. Utilizing SBR technology, this facility is designed to serve around 1.8 million people, playing a crucial role in mitigating sewage pollution in the River Ganga and supporting long-term wastewater management in the area.
New Facilities in West Bengal and Bihar
North Barrackpore in West Bengal has added a 30 MLD STP to its sanitation infrastructure, supported by ₹154 crore in funding. This facility is designed to benefit approximately 220,000 residents and is in adherence to National Green Tribunal (NGT) regulations. Additionally, the Patna Kankarbagh STP in Bihar has expanded its capacity from 15 MLD to 30 MLD, further enhancing sewage treatment capabilities and pollution abatement efforts along the Ganga River.
These recent developments represent a robust commitment towards cleaner rivers and improved urban sanitation in India, as the Namami Gange Mission continues its efforts for sustainable and comprehensive river rejuvenation.
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