BS EDIT: India’s need to increase wastewater reuse

By Business StandardPublished On Oct 14, 2024

Push for wastewater reuse

The Union government proposes regulations for 50% wastewater reuse by 2031 for bulk consumers, targeting reduced water waste in a nation with limited water resources

Growing water stress

India, with 18% of the world’s population and just 4% of its water resources, faces water stress. Approximately 600 million people experience high to extreme water scarcity

Need for treatment measures

Entities using over 5,000 litres daily, including residential and industrial sectors, must register and implement wastewater treatment under proposed regulations

Climate risks intensify insecurity

With the driest year on record globally in 2023, India’s rivers and reservoirs face lower water inflows.

By 2025, 11 of India’s 15 major river basins are projected to experience water stress

Impact and challenges

India’s industrial sectors, especially coal power and steel, are highly vulnerable to water stress.

Declining water availability poses risks to growth and development in these industries

Benefits of wastewater reuse

Only 28% of urban sewage wastewater is reused. Boosting reuse can reduce water insecurity, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and aid river and wetland restoration