Namami Gange Mission 2.0

In the second half of the financial year 2024–25, the Namami Gange Mission 2.0 has marked milestone with the completion of seven major sewage treatment projects. These projects are located in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Delhi. Their primary aim is to prevent sewage from entering rivers, thereby enhancing water quality and rejuvenating these vital waterways.

Project Overview

The Namami Gange Mission is a comprehensive initiative aimed at cleaning and conserving the Ganga River. The recently completed projects focus on establishing sewage treatment plants (STPs) and interception and diversion networks. The total investment for these projects stands at ₹1,772 crore.

Key Projects in Uttar Pradesh

In Uttar Pradesh, several notable projects have been completed. The Farrukhabad STP, with a capacity of 47.70 million litres per day (MLD), was built at a cost of ₹261 crore. It aims to restore the natural purity of the Ganga. Ayodhya has also seen the establishment of a 33 MLD STP for ₹222 crore, ensuring the cleanliness of the Saryu River. Additionally, a 32.50 MLD STP in Muzaffarnagar, costing ₹234 crore, will rejuvenate the Kali West and Hindon rivers.

Projects in Bihar

Bihar has initiated several projects under the Namami Gange Mission. The Bakhtiyarpur STP, with a capacity of 10 MLD, was developed for ₹85 crore. This project offers hope for pollution-affected areas. In Fatuha, a 7 MLD STP was established for ₹35.49 crore, while Phulwari Sharif has seen a 6 MLD project initiated at a cost of ₹46 crore. These projects follow the Design-Build-Operate-Transfer (DBOT) model.

Delhi’s Major Initiative

Delhi has completed Asia’s largest STP, which has a capacity of 564 MLD. This ambitious project was built at a cost of ₹666 crore and aims to conserve the Yamuna River. It employs the Anaerobic-Anoxic-Oxic (A2O) technology and adheres to National Green Tribunal (NGT) norms.

Overall Impact and Future Goals

With a total capacity of 3,722 MLD and 157 STPs commissioned, the Namami Gange Mission is making strides towards cleaner rivers and improved urban sanitation. The completion of 15 projects in the financial year 2024–25, at a total cost of ₹3,184 crore, reinforces the mission’s commitment to sustainable river rejuvenation.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of the Namami Gange Mission on river rejuvenation in India.
2. What are the key features of the Design-Build-Operate-Transfer model? Explain its relevance in infrastructure projects.
3. Comment on the significance of using advanced technology in sewage treatment plants for environmental conservation.
4. What are the challenges faced in urban sanitation in India? How can initiatives like the Namami Gange Mission address these challenges?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of the Namami Gange Mission on river rejuvenation in India.

1. Significant reduction of sewage discharge into rivers, improving water quality.
2. Enhancement of biodiversity and aquatic life through cleaner river ecosystems.
3. Infrastructure development with 157 STPs and a total capacity of 3,722 MLD.
4. Community engagement and awareness programs promoting river conservation.
5. Long-term economic benefits through improved tourism and local livelihoods.

2. What are the key features of the Design-Build-Operate-Transfer model? Explain its relevance in infrastructure projects.

1. DBOT model emphasizes private sector participation in project execution.
2. It ensures efficiency through a single entity managing design, construction, and operation.
3. Encourages innovation and timely completion of projects.
4. Risk sharing between public and private sectors enhances project sustainability.
5. Facilitates maintenance and operational accountability over the project lifecycle.

3. Comment on the significance of using advanced technology in sewage treatment plants for environmental conservation.

1. Advanced technologies enhance treatment efficiency, reducing pollution levels .
2. Technologies like A2O optimize resource use and energy consumption.
3. Facilitates compliance with environmental regulations and standards.
4. Promotes recovery of resources such as biogas and treated water for reuse.
5. Increases public confidence in environmental management and sustainability initiatives.

4. What are the challenges faced in urban sanitation in India? How can initiatives like the Namami Gange Mission address these challenges?

1. Inadequate sewage infrastructure leading to untreated waste discharge.
2. Rapid urbanization outpacing sanitation development efforts.
3. Lack of public awareness and community involvement in sanitation issues.
4. Financial constraints limiting investment in necessary technologies.
5. Namami Gange Mission addresses these through comprehensive projects, community engagement, and innovative financing models.