BMC Aims to Repurpose Treated Sewage Water for Non-Potable Uses

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced that its sewage testing laboratory has achieved accreditation from the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL). This recognition underscores the civic body’s commitment to maintaining high standards in water quality testing and paves the way for the repurposing of treated sewage water.

The BMC operates a network of six sewage treatment plants across the city, treating approximately 2,464 million litres of sewage daily. While the treated water is currently released into creeks, rivers, and the Arabian Sea, the BMC is exploring opportunities to reuse it for non-potable purposes, such as gardening and toilet flushing. This initiative aims to conserve drinking water resources and promote sustainable practices. The BMC’s sewage testing laboratory, established in 1935, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the quality of treated sewage water. The laboratory conducts rigorous testing on 22 parameters, ensuring that the recycled water meets stringent standards for reuse.

The NABL accreditation further enhances the credibility of the laboratory’s reports, both domestically and internationally. Additional Municipal Commissioner emphasized the significance of the accreditation, stating, “The NABL accreditation significantly elevates the credibility of the BMC’s sewage treatment laboratory reports. This recognition guarantees that our reports on recycled water from sewage treatment projects are officially validated. Moreover, the laboratory’s enhanced testing capacity is expected to generate additional revenue.”

The BMC’s efforts to repurpose treated sewage water align with global trends towards sustainable water management. By leveraging advanced treatment technologies and ensuring water quality through rigorous testing, the civic body is taking a proactive approach to address the challenges of water scarcity and environmental conservation.