It may be hard to imagine that crores of rupees can be earned from sewage water, but the Surat Municipal Corporation has made it a reality. By treating wastewater from the city's sewer system, the corporation has generated Rs 140 crore in revenue through sales to local industries. This initiative has not only addressed water reuse but also created a significant source of income for the municipal body.
While speaking at the National Conference of Chairpersons of Urban Local Bodies held in Manesar, Surat Municipal Commissioner Shalini Agarwal shared this remarkable success story. She highlighted that Surat, globally known as the Diamond City, also hosts a large number of textile and solar panel manufacturing units, industries that require substantial water usage daily.
The wastewater generated in the city is collected through the sewerage system and directed to treatment plants. Three treatment plants, with a capacity of 115 MLD, purify this water, which is then supplied to local industries. This initiative generates significant revenue of approximately Rs 140 crore.
Currently, only 33 percent of wastewater treated; Surat aims to generate Rs 450 crore revenue in future
Municipal Commissioner Shalini Agarwal stated that currently, only 33 per cent of the wastewater generated in the city is being treated. However, the goal is to significantly increase this capacity in the coming years. The target is to treat 70 per cent of wastewater by 2030 and achieve 100 per cent treatment by 2035.
This expansion is expected to generate revenue of Rs 450 crore. She also mentioned that treated water is not only supplied to industries but is also used for construction purposes, with water being delivered to construction sites through tankers.
Management of construction waste with just one click
Municipal Commissioner Shalini Agarwal stated that an integrated waste management system has been implemented in the city. With just one click, residents can send construction waste to designated processing sites. Once an online request is made, the waste is collected directly from the location.
She also shared that Surat Municipal Corporation was honored on the fifth National Water Day in recognition of its efforts. The corporation continues to undertake initiatives aimed at improving services and quality of life for its citizens, she added.