National News: In a significant move towards environmental sustainability and water conservation, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal jointly inaugurated a state-of-the-art 15 MGD (Million Gallons per Day) Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) in Sector 83, Mohali. The project, developed at a cost of 145.26 crore, is equipped with advanced technology and aims to transform wastewater into reusable water.
CM Mann: Model Will Be Replicated Across Punjab
During the inauguration, CM Bhagwant Mann highlighted that this modern STP will serve as a model for similar facilities across the state. “We have used the latest technology to treat wastewater, with the goal of conserving Punjab’s precious water resources. The treated water will be reused for non-drinking purposes such as irrigation and sanitation,” he said.
Referring to Singapore’s example, Mann mentioned the use of microfiltration technology there to make even rainwater potable and emphasized the need to adopt such global best practices in Punjab.
Previous Governments Ignored Environmental Issues
CM Mann criticized previous regimes for neglecting critical environmental concerns, stating that conventional political parties ignored air, water, and soil issues simply because these matters don’t win votes. “This negligence has led to increased pollution and long-term damage to our natural resources,” he asserted.
Since AAP came to power in Punjab, Mann said, the government has taken concrete steps to protect the environment, revive canal systems, and ensure sustainable development for future generations. He emphasized the importance of prevention over cure when it comes to ecological damage.
Kejriwal: Punjab to Be Transformed on Mission Mode
AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal expressed pride and satisfaction at the inauguration of the upgraded plant. He noted that the capacity of the plant was earlier 10 MGD and has now been increased to 15 MGD. “Under CM Bhagwant Mann’s leadership, this STP is a vital step toward a clean and sustainable Punjab,” he said.
Kejriwal announced that Punjab will undergo a large-scale transformation in the coming months on a mission basis. Starting this December, the state government will ensure improvements in water supply, sewage facilities, sanitation, roads, street lighting, and STPs across 166 cities.
Advanced Tech for Water Reuse, Power Saving
Kejriwal highlighted that the upgraded STP includes cutting-edge nutrient removal technology and a 5 MGD capacity Ultra-Filtration Tertiary Treatment Plant—the first of its kind in Punjab. The treated water will be used for irrigation, street cleaning, toilet flushing, and other non-potable purposes. “This will reduce our dependence on fresh water and help conserve groundwater,” he said.
To further enhance sustainability, a 1 MW solar power plant has also been installed at the site to reduce energy consumption. Kejriwal explained that the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) developed the STP using a scientific approach, keeping in mind the population growth and urban development over the next 20 years.
A Model for Progressive Punjab
Both leaders emphasized that this STP project is a milestone in building a progressive and eco-conscious Punjab. Kejriwal concluded by reiterating AAP’s commitment to launching more such initiatives across the state for the welfare of its people and the protection of natural resources.
