Leak Halts Lucknow Sewage Plant for Weeks

A critical 1600 mm inlet pipeline leak at the Loniya Purwa sewage treatment plant has forced its complete shutdown since June 19, 2025. This halt in operations severely impacts Lucknow's sewage management, with the facility remaining non-operational for over five months. Despite consistent warnings issued via written communications by Uttar Pradesh Jal Nigam (Rural) over several months, no repair work had commenced prior to intervention.

Municipal Commissioner Gaurav Kumar, during a site inspection on Saturday, characterized the delay as "highly irresponsible," noting the plant's vital role in the city's wastewater treatment infrastructure. The leakage, affecting both the inlet pipeline and its adjoining chamber, has also impeded progress on the Namami Gange project, escalating concerns about potential environmental damage and untreated sewage overflow.

Kumar has now directed GM Jalkal and the private contractor, M/s Suez India Pvt. Ltd, to initiate repairs immediately. He emphasized the need for swift action and a joint plan to restore operations, warning against further laxity. The project manager for Jal Nigam (Rural) is also tasked with ensuring proper earth-filling post-repair.