Mumbai:- In a major step towards sustainability, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to generate biogas at its upgraded Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) as part of a broader waste-to-energy initiative. The project aims to reduce dependency on external electricity and promote the use of recycled water across Mumbai.
The BMC is upgrading seven STPs with a combined capacity to treat 2,464 million litres (ML) of sewage per day. These plants will incorporate secondary and tertiary treatment systems in compliance with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) norms, significantly improving the quality of water released into creeks, rivers, and the Arabian Sea.
Deputy Chief Engineer (Sewage Project) Ashok Mengde confirmed that 20% of the 16 MW power required for each plant will be met through biogas generated from treated sludge. “The sludge will undergo high-grade processing, and electricity will be generated on-site to power operations,” he said.
Currently, civil work on the project is 30–42% complete, with construction ongoing through the 2025 and 2026 monsoons. Safety measures are in place for equipment installation and worker protection.
Once operational, the STPs are expected to boost marine ecosystems by improving seawater quality.
Knowledge Centre, Tanker Filling Points & Water Reuse Drive
A Knowledge Centre and Viewing Gallery will be built at the Bandra STP to educate students, researchers, and the public on modern sewage treatment processes. The site will also feature a public garden and odour control systems.
The BMC plans to treat 50% of the 2,464 ML sewage to potable standards, generating 1,232 ML of high-quality water daily. Tanker filling points will be set up at each site, offering this water for non-drinking purposes like gardening, toilet maintenance, and cleaning public areas—at nominal rates.
Currently, recycled water is supplied at ₹1 per kilolitre to the Navy and ₹20 to Wellington Club. Similar pricing will be extended citywide. BPCL and HPCL have also requested reclaimed water for industrial cooling systems, and the BMC plans to meet this demand from the Ghatkopar STP.
This project marks a significant move towards a greener, more water-secure Mumbai.
