Ganga States Face Massive Sewage Gap

Five states bordering the Ganga River are facing a critical sewage treatment deficit, with their combined sewage generation exceeding processing capacity by approximately 32%. Data indicates that Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal generate a total of 11,785.5 million litres per day (MLD), while their sewage treatment plants (STPs) can only handle 8,026.7 MLD.

Uttar Pradesh shows the highest sewage generation at 5,500 MLD, followed by West Bengal and Bihar. Despite having numerous STPs, the treatment capacity in each state remains insufficient. Jharkhand, Bihar, and West Bengal alone contribute nearly 79% to the total sewage treatment capacity gap, highlighting urgent management needs.

Environment specialists note that efforts are underway to expand sewage management, including interventions in tributaries and smaller towns. The National Mission for Clean Ganga is actively involved in increasing STP capacity and enhancing septage-management protocols. While progress is being made, the significant treatment gap continues to pose a challenge to maintaining the Ganga's water quality.