Uttar Pradesh has reached a significant milestone in wastewater management, now capable of treating approximately 85% of its sewage. The state processes more than 4500 million litres of wastewater every day, reflecting a growing focus on improving river health and urban water management.



The second phase of the Namami Gange Mission has reinforced the state’s sewerage infrastructure. So far, 74 sewage treatment projects have been approved across the state, with 41 already completed and operational. Additionally, 155 Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) are functioning, and work on remaining projects is progressing at a rapid pace. These efforts aim to reduce pollution in major rivers, including the Ganga and the Yamuna.



Alongside treatment, the state is developing a structured policy for the safe reuse of treated wastewater. This policy is designed in three stages: municipal applications such as park irrigation and street cleaning, industrial and agricultural use including field irrigation and industrial processes, and domestic non-potable applications like construction and recycling.



Officials indicate that in areas with operational STPs and adequate capacity, the plan targets 50% reuse of wastewater by 2030 and full reuse by 2035. This approach not only emphasizes environmental protection but also positions treated water as a resource for sustainable urban and industrial development.



Experts suggest that effective monitoring of these projects is crucial, ensuring that river ecosystems remain protected while water resources are efficiently utilized. The initiative reflects a broader trend in Indian states to integrate wastewater management with sustainable development goals, offering a model for other regions seeking to balance urban growth with ecological responsibility.



By combining infrastructure development with innovative reuse strategies, Uttar Pradesh aims to demonstrate that treated wastewater can be an asset, contributing to both economic activities and the long-term health of rivers.