Pune Municipal Corporation Plans Rs 1,200 Cr Upgrade For STPs

In a bid to enhance its sewage treatment infrastructure, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has announced plans to allocate Rs 1,200 crore towards upgrading its existing nine sewage treatment plants (STPs) during the fiscal year 2024-25, according to officials.

Vikram Kumar, the Municipal Commissioner, outlined the ambitious undertaking, stating, "We are committed to upgrading the existing STPs by investing Rs 1,200 crore. This initiative encompasses not only technological upgrades but also the expansion of treatment capacity."

The civic body has already earmarked Rs 1,000 crore for the initiative, with assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), alongside the construction of 11 new STPs.

Responding to inquiries regarding the higher costs associated with constructing new plants, Kumar clarified, "Our objective extends beyond mere modernization; we are concurrently augmenting the capacity of these facilities."

Explaining the rationale behind the substantial investment, Kumar emphasised the importance of sewage treatment in the context of ongoing riverfront development projects within the city. "For successful riverfront development, it is imperative to ensure the cleanliness of our water bodies. PMC aims to treat 100 per cent of the sewage generated in the city. To achieve this goal, we need to expand our sewage treatment infrastructure," he elaborated.

The upgrade of existing STPs and the construction of new facilities align with PMC's broader vision of enhancing environmental sustainability and ensuring the provision of essential services to its residents. With increased treatment capacity, the corporation aims to mitigate pollution and safeguard the ecological health of Pune's water resources, in line with its commitment to fostering a cleaner and healthier urban environment.

The proposed investment reflects PMC's proactive approach towards infrastructure development, underscoring its dedication to addressing pressing environmental concerns and advancing the city's long-term sustainability goals. As Pune continues to evolve, such initiatives play a crucial role in bolstering its resilience and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.