Urban Development and Housing Department

Government of Bihar

Guidelines for Siting of

Sewage Treatment Plant

Support Programme for Urban Reforms in Bihar

(A Government of Bihar Initiative)
Supported by DFID, United Kingdom
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dh fn'kk esa fo'ks"k iz;kl dj jgk gSA
eSa] foHkkx ds bl iz;kl esa DFID }kjk fok iksf"kr lao/kZu Support Program
for Urban Reforms in Bihar izksxzke ds rduhdh lg;ksx dh fo'ks"k ljkguk
djrk gw ftUgksaus lhost VhVesUV IykUV STP dh LFkkiuk gsrq Hkwfe p;u ds
fn'kk funsZ'k cuk, gSaA
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(Mk- izse dqekj)

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vFkok Hkkjr ljdkj }kjk fok iksf"kr ;kstukvksa ls vFkok ck ,tsafl;ksa }kjk fok
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lgh LFkku ij LFkkfir u fd;k tk, rks blds foijhr i;kZoj.kh; izHkko ls uxj ds
jgokfl;ksa ds LokLF; ij cqjk izHkko iM+ ldrk gSA blfy, uxj fodkl ,oa vkokl
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p;u ds fy, fuEu ekun.M fu/kkZfjr fd, gSA Hkwfe ds p;u esa tgk rd lEHko gks
bu ekun.Mksa dks /;ku esa j[kuk pkfg,A
1- tgk rd lEHko gks ljdkjh Hkwfe dk p;u fd;k tk,A ;fn ljdkjh Hkwfe
miyC/k u gks rks ,slh Hkwfe dk p;u fd;k tk, ftldh [kjhn nj cgqr de
gksA
2- Hkwfe dk {ks=Qy ey 'kks/ku rduhd ij vk/kkfjr gSA ljy ,oa lgt rduhd
ij vk/kkfjr la;a= ftldh LFkkiuk dh ykxr Hkh de gks mlds fy, vf/kd
Hkwfe dh vko';drk gksrh gS tcfd tfVy rduhd ,oa vf/kd ykxr ds la;a=
gsrq de {ks=Qy dh Hkwfe dh vko';drk gksxhA vr% tfVy rduhd ls cpus
ds fy, de dher dh vf/kd Hkwfe miyC/k gks rks ,slh Hkwfe dk p;u mfpr
gksxkA 'kks/ku rduhd ,oa Hkwfe dh vko';drk bl ekxZ nf'kZdk ds i`"B 5 ij
miyC/k rkfydk 1 ds vuqlkj r; dh tk ldrh gSA
3- lhojst IykUV gsrq Hkwfe dk p;u uxj dh ml fn'kk esa fd;k tkuk pkfg, tgk
uxj ds foLrkj dh lEHkkouk de gksA
4- lhojst IykUV ifjlj ls fudVre vkcknh dh nwjh 500 ehVj ls de ugh gksuh
pkfg,A Hkwfe dks fpfUgr djus ds lkFk gh Hkwfe ds pkjksa vksj 500 ehVj dh
ifjf/k dks xSj vkcknh Hkwfe ?kksf"kr djuk pkfg,A
5- lhojst IykUV dh LFkkiuk ok;q dh fn'kk ds downstream esa gh djuk mfpr gS
rkfd lhojst IykUV ls mRiUu gksus okyh nqxZU/k uxj dh vksj u tkdj uxj
ls nwj pyh tk,A ;fn ,slh Hkwfe feyuk lEHko u gks rks ;g lqfuf'pr fd;k
tk, fd ey 'kks/ku la;a= ls fdlh Hkh ifjfLFkfr esa nqxZU/k mRiUu u gksA
6- lhojst IykUV ,slh Hkwfe ij LFkkfir ugha fd;k tkuk pkfg, tks xr 100 o"kksZ
ds nkSjku esa vkbZ ck<+ esa dHkh izHkkfor gqbZ gksA
7- rduhdh :i ls ;g egRoiw.kZ gS fd lhojst IykUV uxj ds ml vksj LFkkfir
fd;k tk, tgk Hkwfe dk yscy lcls de gks rkfd lhost fcuk ifEiax ds ;k
de ls de ifEiax }kjk lhojst IykUV rd igqp ldsA
8- Hkwfe dh feh dh izd`fr ds vuq:i 'kks/ku rduhd dk mi;ksx djuk pkfg,
;fn izLrkfor Hkwfe ckyw feh dh gS rks Stabilization pond ;k Lagoon cukuk
mfpr ugha gksxk tcfd ;fn Hkwfe dh feh fpduh feh gS rks Heavy
structures ugha cukus pkfg,A
9- tgk rd lEHko gks 'kks/ku la;a= gsrq p;fur Hkwfe ds vkl ikl fo|qr ,oa
is;ty dh lqfo/kk gks rks vPNk jgsxkA
10- ;fn p;fur Hkwfe ij LFkkfir 'kks/ku la;a= fudV dh lM+d ls vkus&tkus
okyksa dks fn[kkbZ ugha ns rks vPNk gksxkA
11- p;fur Hkwfe ij lajf{kr tho tUrq ,oa izkd`frd tM+h cwfV;k gksa rks ,slh Hkwfe
dk p;u ugha djuk pkfg,A
12- p;fur Hkwfe ds vkl ikl 'kksf/kr ty ds fuLrkj.k dh O;oLFkk gks rks mfpr gS
fdUrq laxzg.k fcUnq ls p;fur Hkwfe vf/kd nwj ugh gksuh pkfg, D;ksafd vf/kd
nwjh rd 'kksf/kr ty ds fuLrkj.k esa tks O;; gksrk gS mlds ctk; vf/kd nwjh
ls lhost dks 'kks/ku la;a= rd ys tkus esa vf/kd O;; vkrk gSA
13- ,sfrgkfld bekjr ,oa /kkfeZd LFkku ds vkl ikl Hkwfe ds p;u ls cpuk
pkfg,A
14- ;fn Stabilization pond vFkok Lagoon izLrkfor gS rks p;fur Hkwfe
fudVre gokbZ vM~Ms ls de ls de 10 fdeh nwj gksuh pkfg,A
FORWARD CONTENTS

1.0 Introduction 1
These guidelines are designed to provide decision makers with a simple
1.1 Aims and Objectives 1
easy to use tool to assist with the site selection process for sewage treatment
1.2 Why? 2
and wastewater facilities.
1.3 What? 2
As they stand these guidelines represent a do-minimum approach to site
1.4 Who? 3
selection; the selection of a site is inextricably linked to the choice of
2.0 Key Considerations Environmental Impacts 3
technology adopted and supporting infrastructure that may required. A
sewage treatment plant, ideally forms part of an integrated system, whereby 3.0 Location Criteria 4
effluent, in the form of waste water and sewage sludge can be re-used for 3.1 Regulatory Requirements 5
agricultural purposes (particularly significant for Bihar) and captured 3.1.1 Land Requirements relating to choice of technology 5
methane gases can be used for energy generation. 3.1.2 Land Use 6
The next iteration of this document will provide more guidance on the specific 3.1.3 Distance to Residential Development 6
implications of embarking on certain technological options; for example the 3.1.4 Wind Direction 6
siting requirements for settling ponds as compared with aerated lagoons or 3.1.5 Potential for Flooding 6
biological filters. 3.1.6 Topography and Geology 6
It is also anticipated that this document will be used alongside detailed 3.1.7 Power and Water Supply 7
design criteria for STP and as part of a wider strategy for waste management. 3.1.8 Flora and Fauna 7
3.1.9 Visual Impacts 7
3.1.10 Accessibility 7
3.1.11 Heritage Sites 8
3.1.12 Disposal of Effluent 8
3.1.13 Distance from airports 8
4.0 Environmental Management and Basic Design Issues 9
4.1 Re-use of effluents 9
4.2 Agriculture Re-use 9
4.2.1 Waste Water 9
4.2.2 Sewage Sludge 9
4.3 Energy from Waste 10
ANNEX 1 11
GUIDELINES FOR SITING OF
SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANTS

1.0 Introduction
These guidelines provide the basis for a consistent and best practice
approach to the siting of sewage treatment plants (STP) in the State of Bihar.
The guidelines have been written to:
reinforce key components of the Water (Prevention and Control of
Pollution) Act, 1974, amended 1988 (and associated rules); the
provisions of the National Environment Policy (2008) and the
provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (amended 1991)
and associated rules (1986);
outline key issues and requirements with respect to the applicable
legislation and to provide additional guidance on siting of sewage
treatment plants.

1.1 Aims and Objectives

These guidelines are specifically designed to:
provide the basis for siting, design and development of sewage
treatment plants in the State of Bihar in an environmentally acceptable
and sustainable manner;
provide practical guidance to operators and regulatory authorities in
meeting their requirement to avoid, remedy or mitigate the adverse
effects of sewage treatment and disposal in accordance with the
Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, amended 1988
(and associated rules); the provisions of the National Environment
Policy (2008) and the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act,
1986 (amended 1991) and associated rules (1986); and to
reflect current recommended waste industry best practice (both
private and local authority) for key aspects of sewage treatment plant.
To help achieve these objectives, the guidelines outline the key
considerations in the siting and providing a consistent approach that reduces
the actual and potential effects of sewage treatment and the re-use of water

01
 and sludge effluent on people and the wider environment.
These guidelines are not intended to be a detailed technical manual, but
rather a basis for ULBs and other development authorities to earmark land
for siting and design of the STPs at the stage of land use planning or
subsequently. The specifics of siting and design of the site-specific
requirements for investigations and design including the statutory
requirement for obtaining consent to establish from BSPCB as mandated by
the Government of India National Environment Act (1986).
1.2 Why?
The towns and cities of Bihar suffer from poor water supply and sewage
systems. In most cases existing systems are based on combined storm
water and sewage waste drains; the outflow for these systems is typically into
either a static water body or an existing water course. A rapidly expanding
urban population, coupled with little operational maintenance has created
both a public health hazard and led to the virtual collapse of natural eco-
systems.
Providing a functional sewage and waste water system is a priority for the
Bihar State Government; advances in knowledge and innovative
technologies have created an opportunity for Bihar to develop its urban
systems and to do so in a manner that is both environmentally sustainable
and economically profitable. Re-use of waste water and effluent and waste
from energy can all become important revenue streams. The driver remains,
however, human and environmental health.
A centralized STP can be a vital component in an overall sewage and waste
water system for an urban area. However, where that STP is situated can
have a major influence on its performance; its cost profile (both capital and in
operations and maintenance) and on the impact it has on the physical and
bio-physical environment, including humans.
1.3 What?
The more precise description for sewage treatment is domestic wastewater
treatment. This is the process of cleaning up sewage from domestic and
common commercial sources, but it does not usually include cleanup of
02
wastewater from heavy industry or agricultural sources. It includes physical,
chemical, and biological processes to remove physical, chemical and
biological contaminants. Its objective is to produce a waste stream (or
treated effluent) and a solid waste or sludge suitable for discharge or reuse
back into the environment.
There is wide range of techniques and technological options available to
decision makers, each typically based on three main phases primary,
secondary and tertiary treatment; in general terms primary treatment is
usually focused on the temporary storage of waste water to allow sludge to
settle and oils and other floating materials to rise to the surface. Secondary
treatment is designed to degrade the biological content of the sewage; a
tertiary treatment may then be employed to raise the quality of the effluent to
be discharged. The form that this discharge takes is also an important point
for decision makers.
The purpose of these guidelines is to provide a general guide to some of the
critical issues which apply to all options; in time these guidelines will provide
more option specific advice, based on emerging choices and as part of an
integrated waste management strategy. A description and outline
specification of some of the options available are included in Annex A1 to
these Guidelines.
1.4 Who?
These guidelines have been designed principally, though not exclusively for
use by the State Government of Bihar, its respective implementing agencies
and ULBs. This includes staff, consultants and contractors. Key agencies
include the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), Public Health Engineering
Department (PHED) and the Bihar Rajya Jal Parishad (BRJP). However,
they will also be of use to anyone working in the field of water and sanitation
(WATSAN), environmental management or public health.
2.0 Key Considerations-Environmental Impacts
Sanitation projects are intended to improve environmental health (and
1
Source: "The Guide to Decision Making -
Technical Options for Urban Sanitation in India, 2008" issued Govt. of India
03
 provide numerous other benefits). However, if they are not designed final analysis, there are a range of important environmental and engineering
correctly or located in the right environment there are a range of negative criteria which must be considered. These are as follows:
effects which may offset or eliminate these intended benefits. The extent of
impact both positive and negative is highly dependent on the technology
3.1 Regulatory Requirements
option adopted and siting of STP.
The requirements of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Water
Odour Nuisance:
(Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 must be met if consent is to be
There is no escaping the fact that sewage smells.bad. The measures granted by the Bihar State Pollution Control Board for the STP. The following
taken to mitigate this important issue in design will depend very much on the sections are designed to assist with this process.
choice of technology. Solutions may range from a comprehensive odour
control plant which discharges into the atmosphere via an exhaust stack to
ensure that an adequate buffer zone is enforced, development 3.1.1 Land Requirements relating to choice of technology
encroachment is discouraged and an adequate maintenance regime is Table 1 below provides indicative land area requirements for different
instigated. technology types. These will need to be revised in the light of potential
beneficiaries. An important consideration when considering the amount of
land required, is that in the appraisal of the feasibility of an STP that land is of
3.0 Location Criteria
course a recoverable capital item. Since land generally appreciates, the end
The following sections provide a set of general issues and site specific of project value for an STP that is land intensive can be much higher. The
criteria to be adopted during the site selection process. choice of technology should be based on life cycle cost of STP up to the end
In broad terms the following key issues will determine overall site selection: of project.
Choice of appropriate technology;
Table No. 1: Land requirements for a sample of treatment options
Land availability, with a preference for government owned land;
Sl. Treatment Options Recommended Area Appx. Capital Cost
Engineering and Environmental suitability of land and; in Ha./MLD Rs Lac / MLD
The availability of skills and resources for operations and maintenance; 1 Oxidation Ditch/ Extended Aeration 0.25 62
Availability of infrastructure facility. 2 Waste Stabilization Ponds 1.00 40
Each of these factors are interlinked. As discussed, the choice of an 3 Activated Sludge Process 0.20 100
appropriate technology is likely to be a function of land availability, cost and
4 Trickling Filters 0.25 70
the availability of skills and resources for operations and maintenance. For
example, the use of waste stablisation ponds require a large land area, but 5 Sequential Batch Reactor (SBR) 0.05 120
annual operating costs and the level of education and skill required for 6 UASB followed by Facultative Pond 0.60 80
maintenance are less than for a biological filtration plant. Similarly, the 7 UASB followed by Extended Aeration 0.50 84
construction of ponds and aerated lagoons can create a greater potential for
revenue generation than other technology choices with higher re-use Note: 1. In case more land is available at any location, attempt may be made to aquire the
potential from waste water and effluent in crop irrigation and aquaculture. same for future extension. 2.The per MLD cost of STP indicated above is for reference &
In all cases, preference should be given to government owned land, but in the comparison only. It will vary according to location, size, quality of waste etc.

04 05
 3.1.2 Land Use
The effect of siting a STP on existing land-use and on proposed after use
must be considered. The predominant land-use in peri-urban and rural areas
surrounding ULB's in Bihar is agriculture. Reference should be made to the
Bihar State Pollution Control Board Zoning Atlas and environmental profile
data. Population trends and transport networks also need to be taken into
account with a view to minimize disturbance.
3.1.3 Distance to Residential Development
A STP should be located away from inhabited and residential areas. It is
recommended that a buffer of at least 500m is maintained at all times. The
planning phase should take account of anticipated urban expansion; the
purpose of the buffer is to minimize the effect of odour and noise nuisance
from the STP.
3.1.4 Wind Direction
In line with the requirements for a buffer zone, avoid a site with significant
inhabited and residential areas down-stream of the prevailing wind. If the site
in the downstream of prevailing wind is unavoidable, all precautions shall be
taken to mitigate the odor problem during operation & maintenance of STP.
3.1.5 Potential for Flooding
Sewage Treatment Plants of any description should be located above the 1
in 100 year flood level to avoid pollution of floodwaters, loss of biological
treatment cultures and flood damage to infrastructure.
3.1.6 Topography and Geology
A site with a slight slope is preferable to facilitate gravity flow of waste water
through treatment units and to minimize earthworks and associated
construction costs. A site with a low water table would be preferable to
minimize difficulties in earthworks, prevent instability with in-ground
structures and limit potential ground water impacts.
Soils with a high clay content would be preferable to provide clay material for
06
the lining of any treatment units such as ponds or lagoons or for bio-solids
management or re-claimed water storage. Clay lining is commonly used to
prevent leaching of any contaminants from ponds or lagoons to the ground
water.
3.1.7 Power and Water Supply
Treatment facilities typically require the provision of a power supply for the
operation of electrical and mechanical units such as pumps and aeration
equipment. A potable water supply is required for cleaning processes and
potable water uses for operational staff.
3.1.8 Flora and Fauna
The protection of flora and fauna is an important consideration. In particular
regionally significant species & vegetation and areas of potential significance
for native fauna need to be assessed.
3.1.9 Visual Impacts
A site that is hidden or obscured from general view by topography, vegetation
or existing structures should be preferred for the protection of existing visual
amenity in an area.
3.1.10 Accessibility
Because of the high solids content of raw waste water and the high peak
flows involved, transporting sewage is usually more expensive than
transporting reclaimed water. For this reason having the sewage treatment
plant in close proximity to the sewage collection system is usually more
important than being in close proximity to the re-use area.
In addition to being located close to the source of the wastewater and the
points of re-use and/or release as practicable, treatment facilities for ease of
maintenance, need to be readily accessible for operational staff. Access is
also an issue during the construction phase of the treatment works as this will
be used for construction plant, delivery trucks and construction workers.
Sites with an existing access are desirable in terms of minimizing
07
 construction costs. However, it access via residential areas and streets
should be avoided.
3.1.11 Heritage Sites
Places of heritage and areas of historical significance and religious
significance should be avoided. Consult the relevant national and/or local
archaeological agencies regarding the archaeological potential of proposed
sites of STP, pumping stations and main sewers, to ensure that these are
located in areas where there is low risk of chance finds.
3.1.12 Disposal of Effluent
The preferred solution is the development of an STP which incorporates
mechanisms for effluent re-use. However, it is recognized that if the quality
and composition of this effluent cannot be guaranteed that alternative
arrangements for disposal will need to be considered. This issue is complex
and worthy of a guidance note in its own right. However, at a minimum the
following issues need to be considered :
Locate a STP at a site where there is suitable means of disposal for the
treated wastewater effluent (e.g. into a natural water course or irrigation
canal) or provide a means of disposal (e.g. new irrigation canal) as part
of the scheme.
The effluent disposal should not be immediate upstream of water intakes
or water usage points (at least 500 m away).
The disposal point should be on down-slope of groundwater sources.
No water supply pipes or underground services other than those
required by the disposal system itself should be located within the
disposal area.
3.1.13 Distance from airports
If the treatment system adopted for sewage is lagoons and ponds, it might
attract birds due to food material floating over the liquid, and if located close
to the airport, it might create hazard to the airplanes. The location of the
treatment plant in such cases would require clearance from the air base. If
08
the proposed site locations lies within a 10 Km distance from an airport or
airbase, alternative technological options need to be explored.
4.0 Environmental Management and Basic Design Issues
It is ultimately, impossible to separate the siting of a STP from the choice of
technology employed and options for management, use and disposal of
effluent-both waste water and sewage sludge. This issue will be developed in
later iterations of these guidelines, however, there are a few issues which
should be considered in advance of this work.
4.1 Re-use of effluents
Depending on the type of technology adopted it is possible to profitably
re-use the effluent from STP. The high micro-biological quality of waste water
and sludge permit them to be used for crop irrigation and/or the cultivation of
fish and aquatic vegetables. Pathogen free effluent can be reused for
industrial use. The re-use of effluent (indeed general disposal and discharge)
does, however, need to be strictly controlled to ensure monitoring for
pathogenic bacteria, viruses and protozoa along with other parasitic worms
and chemical pollutants which can give rise to potential hazards to the health
of humans, animals and plants. If controlled procedures cannot be
guaranteed re-use options should not be explored.
4.2 Agriculture Re-use
4.2.1 Waste Water
Crop irrigation is divided into two broad categories: restricted crop irrigation,
meaning irrigation of all crops except salads and vegetables eaten uncooked
and restricted crop irrigation which includes those crops. The World Health
Organisation (WHO) has guidelines for the micro-biological quality of treated
waste water for these two categories.
4.2.2 Sewage Sludge
Most wastewater treatment processes produce a sludge which has to be
disposed of. Whether a biological filtration system or system of stabilisation
09
 ponds, a primary sludge is produced in the primary sedimentation stage of
treatment and a secondary, biological, sludge in final sedimentation after the
biological process. The characteristics of the secondary sludge vary with the
type of biological process and, often, it is mixed with primary sludge before
treatment and disposal. Approximately one half of the costs of operating a
STP can be associated with sludge treatment and disposal. Land application
of raw or treated sewage sludge can reduce significantly the sludge disposal
cost component of sewage treatment as well as providing a large part of the
nitrogen and phosphorus requirements of many crops.
How that sludge is processed and applied will vary-it can be developed as a
dry cake or processed into dry pellets which are applied as a fertiliser. In
both cases, careful attention to the biological and chemical content is
required.
4.3 Energy from Waste
Depending on the type of technology adopted, there are a host of proven
technologies for generating energy from sewage through the process of
anaerobic digestion. From waste stabilisation pond where biogas (methane
and carbon dioxide) can be profitably recovered from anaerobic ponds, if
they are covered with a floating plastic membrane to more sophisticated
methods of energy recovery.
Gas Holding Tank Power Generation Unit from Methane Gas
10
ANNEX 1 - Wastewater Treatment Options
Oxidation Ditch
What is it?
An activated sludge treatment process with a long solids retention time to
improve the efficiency of pollutant removal. Typically consists of a single or
multichannel configuration within a ring-, oval- or horseshoe-shaped basin.
Horizontally or vertically mounted aerators ensure that the wastewater is
oxygenated and promote a circular flow of wastewater through the channel.
Where is it applicable?
Most appropriate for treatment of intermittent flows from small communities
and isolated institutions where there is sufficient land for installation.
Mode of operation
Long hydraulic retention time and complete mixing reduces the impact of
shock loads or hydraulic surges. Produces less sludge than other aerobic
treatment processes due to long solids retention times and extended
biological activity.
Operation and maintenance requirements
Needs a skilled wastewater engineer and electro-mechanic technician to
keep the treatment plant working efficiently. Sludge tends to have high water
content but is relatively easy to dewater and smaller in volume than sludge
from conventional activated sludge plants. Total power costs are higher than
for conventional activated sludge due to the extended retention time.
Additional infrastructure or treatment requirements
May be preceded by a primary sedimentation tank but many systems omit
primary sedimentation. Excess biomass is removed in a clarifier and some is
returned to the oxidation ditch to maintain sufficient concentration of active
biomass in the reactor. The excess sludge collected by the clarifier must be
dewatered and treated before disposal.
11
 Limitations and risks
Effluent suspended solids' concentrations are relatively high compared to
other modifications of the activated sludge process. Power requirement is
higher than for conventional activated sludge processes-leading to high
power costs and the need for a reliable power supply.
Management arrangements
Oxidation ditches are simpler to operate than activated sludge plants but are
considerably more complex than waste stabilization ponds.
Influent
Return sludge
Effluent Secondary Brush-type
chamber aerators
Source: Photo is from Philippines Sanitation Sourcebook and Decision Aid, WSP-EAP.
Waste Stabilization Ponds
What are they?
There are three basic types of waste stabilization ponds and these are
normally connected in series to provide a two- or three-stage treatment
process. They are:
Anaerobic ponds: Comparatively small and deep (3-4 m) as there is no
need for aeration. They receive raw sewage which is treated by anaerobic
bacteria, while sludge that builds up in the bottom of the pond is digested by
anaerobic micro-organisms.
Facultative ponds: Shallower (1.5-2 m) with a larger surface area than
anaerobic ponds. They consist of an aerobic zone close to the surface and a
deeper, anaerobic zone.
Maturation ponds: Shallow (1-1.2 m) with a large surface area to enable
light penetration. They receive treated effluent from the facultative pond and
provide tertiary treatment to remove turbidity, pathogens, and nutrients.
Where are they applicable?
Waste stabilization ponds are appropriate for medium- to low-density
settlements with sufficient free space, but should not be located very close to
houses due to possible odor.
They offer a robust treatment process that can deal with a wide variety of
wastewaters of varying types and concentrations. Ponds are particularly
appropriate where pathogen removal is an important objective of treatment.
Waste stabilization ponds may be combined with aquaculture systems
(duckweed, water hyacinth or fish production).
Mode of operation
Treatment efficiency of high-loaded ponds with long retention times ranges
from 70-95 percent BOD removal (COD removal: 65 percent to 90 percent)
depending on biodegradability of the wastewater. Treatment efficiency
increases with retention time but the number of ponds is not of major
significance (splitting one pond into two ponds may increase performance by
approximately 10 percent). Pond systems continue to operate well when
overloaded beyond their theoretical design loads, but they will invariably fail if
they are not maintained.
Treatment in anaerobic and facultative ponds is based on microbial activity
and settlement of suspended solids and sludge, while in maturation ponds it
is achieved by solar radiation, predation by zooplankton, and the acidity
created by photosynthesis.
Operation and maintenance requirements
The commissioning of facultative ponds involves the development of algal
culture and a heavily loaded anaerobic pond may release a bad odor until a
layer of scum seals the surface. Routine operation and maintenance is easy
but arrangements must be made for sludge removal. This is often done by
emptying ponds and manually digging out the sludge. Alternatively, sludge

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 can be removed under hydrostatic pressure using pumps mounted on rafts. Where is it applicable?
Spraying to prevent fly breeding may be required at various times of the year. Widely used for the treatment of municipal wastewater from medium to large
towns where land is scarce and power is reliable.
Additional treatment requirements
The three-stage process is a complete treatment system. The only additional Mode of operation
requirement is for sludge treatment after its removal from ponds. Vigorous aeration elevates dissolved oxygen to create optimum conditions
for aerobic bacterial growth. The bacterial population is maintained in
suspension and grows rapidly, consuming large quantities of organic matter.
Limitations and risks
A fraction of the settled microbial sludge is pumped back from the secondary
Under design, hydraulic short-circuiting & poor operation and maintenance clarifier to maintain an active population of micro-organisms and an
can all reduce performance. Possible problems related to odor and insects if adequate supply of biological solids for the adsorption of organic material.
the ponds are not managed properly, or are overloaded. Provided the reactor is well operated, a very good removal of BOD and
suspended solids can be achieved, though pathogen removal is low.
Management arrangements Performance is critically dependent on the performance of secondary
Performance and operation and maintenance practices need supervision clarifier and the sludge settling characteristics. Sludge production depends
and monitoring. on the sludge retention time in the reactor (an extended aeration process can
reduce the quantity of sludge produced). Excess sludge is removed from the
secondary clarifier and pumped to a separate sludge-handling process.
Activated Sludge Process
What is it?
Operation and maintenance requirements
This process involves rapid mixing and aeration of the wastewater, either
A continuous supply of oxygen and sludge is essential; hence maintenance
by mechanical surface aerators or a submerged compressed air system,
of the aeration equipment and sludge pump is important. Careful monitoring
to create optimal
and control of concentrations of suspended sludge solids and dissolved
conditions for
oxygen levels in the aeration tank is required.
treatment. The aeration
basin is followed by a
secondary clarifier Additional treatment requirements
(settling tank) designed Pretreatment: There is usually a need for primary sedimentation, but in many
to remove suspended cases it is omitted, with only preliminary screening provided.
micro-organisms (flocs)
Post treatment: The treated effluent from the secondary clarifier may require
prior to discharge.
additional treatment depending on the discharge requirements.
Active biomass is
returned to the aeration Sludge production and treatment: Provision must be made to digest,
tank. dewater, and dispose of excess sludge.
Aeration Tank

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 Limitations and risks
High energy consumption results in high recurring costs.
Performance is adversely affected due to interruptions in power supply,
even for short periods of time, due to impacts on aeration process and
sludge recirculation.
Foaming, particularly in the winter, may adversely affect the oxygen
transfer, and hence performance.
Mixing of industrial effluent with domestic wastewater can lead to toxicity
and major malfunctioning.
Management arrangements
The activated sludge process is technically complex and requires a highly
competent and trained supervisor and workforce to be able to operate the
system effectively.
Where is it applicable?
Can be used as a standalone treatment or a preliminary treatment for high
strength wastewater in combination with activated sludge process or as a
post treatment operation for UASB effluent.
Mode of operation
A rotating arm distributes wastewater across the surface of the filter bed.
Effluent is drained at the bottom. Micro-organisms growing on the media
break down organic material to produce a consistent effluent quality and
sludge with good settling characteristics.
Bacteria use oxygen to convert ammonia in the effluent to nitrate and the
BOD is reduced by 65-85 percent, nitrogen by 10-20 percent, and coliform
bacteria by 60-90 percent. Recirculation of effluent may be required to avoid
low flow conditions and reduce odor and flies.

Secondary
Operation and maintenance requirements
Primary effluent Aeration tank effluent
Relatively straightforward though hydraulic loading needs to be controlled to
Return prevent the loss of bio-film. Clogging of screens must also be controlled.
sludge
Maintenance of the turntable is required, as well as cleaning of stone filter
media once in five or seven years or more.

Final clarifier Additional treatment requirements

Air compressor
Pretreatment: Primary sedimentation is compulsory to avoid clogging of
filter bed.
Recycle
pump Post treatment: Effluent requires secondary clarification.
Sludge treatment: Excess sludge production = 0.8 kg/kg of BOD
removed. Thickening, Digestion and drying are required.
Biological Trickling Filter
What is it?
Sequential Batch Reactor
An 'attached-growth' system comprising a circular tank filled with a bed of
crushed aggregate, cylindrical plastic or foam blocks. Wastewater trickles What is it?
vertically through the filter and the biomass growing on the media removes Sequencing batch reactor or SBR is a new technology for the treatment of
organic matter under aerobic conditions. domestic and industrial waste water. The SBR process treat wastewater by

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 activated sludge process including anoxic/oxic systems, aerated lagoons,
extended aeration processes, trickling filters, rotating biological contactors
(RBCS) and oxidation ditches. It tolerates variable hydraulic loads, variable
organic loads. It controls filamentous growth and provides ideal condition for
settling
Where is it applicable?
It is ideal for treatment of wide range of domestic and industrial waste water
at flow ranging from few thousand liters to millions of liters per day. SBR is
used in domestic applications (municipal, resorts & institutions) as well as in
industrial applications [Chemical/ Petrochemical, Leachate, Food, Tobacco,
Paper & Pulp, Dairy, Textile, OCPSF (organic chemicals, plastics, synthetics
and fibers) and Sugar].
Mode of operation
SBR operates by developing mixed culture of bacteria (biomass) which is
effective for removal of BOD, COD and nutrients commonly found in
wastewater. Further, it does not allow wastewater to enter the reactor during
react, settle decant phases. SBR functions as equalization tank, aeration
tank and clarifier within single reactor. For large quantities of wastewater flow
(more than 500 cubic meters /day) two or more reactors are utilize in
predetermined sequence of operation.
Operation and maintenance requirements
The operation and maintenance requirements are the same that is for
Activated Sludge Process, Aerated Lagoons, Extended Aeration Processes,
Trickling Filters, Rotating Biological Contactors (RBCS) and Oxidation
Ditches.
Additional treatment requirements
Primary treatment & sludge treatment is necessary.
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Advantages
Offer consistent effluent quality to desired limits;
Designed to minimize operation & maintenance cost;
Eliminates return activated sludge piping;
Low installation cost;
Low power consumption.
Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) Technology
What is it?
The principle of UASB reactor is to introduce raw sewage at the bottom of the
UASB reactor. This helps in maintaining a sludge blanket, the incoming
sewage passes through the blanket and fine suspended particles are filtered
and soluble components are absorbed in the Biomass. This Biomass
converts the waste into the Biogas and some new Biomass. The gas leaves
the blanket in bubbles and provides necessary mixing. The settled sludge is
digested in the bottom zone.
The main units are UASB reactor in which most of the Biodegradation takes
place, Sludge Drying Beds for dewatering and drying of sludge, Biogas
Holder where bio-gas generated from UASB reactors is collected followed by
Polishing Unit or Extended Aeration System to remove the balance BOD and
Secondary Clarifier.
Where is it applicable?
Widely used for the treatment of municipal wastewater from medium to large
towns where land is scarce and power is reliable.
Mode of operation
The UASB system is operated under the absence of air, therefore, require
low energy, less operation & maintenance, less skilled manpower. There is
less production of sludge in this process.
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 Operation and maintenance requirements 1989 WHO guidelines for using treated wastewater in agriculturea
Potential for resource recovery through generation of electricity from biogas Category Reuse Exposed Intestinal Faecal Wastewater treatment
conditions group nematodesb coliforms expected to achieve
and utilization of stabilized sludge as manure. (arithmetic (geometric the required
mean no. of mean no. microbiological
eggs per 100 mlc) guideline
Additional treatment requirements per 100mlc)
A Irrigation of crops Workers, 1 1000 A series of stabilisation
Apart from the primary treatment of waste, a facultative pond or oxidation likely to be eaten consumers, ponds designed to
ditch with polishing pond is required. uncooked, sports fields, public achieve the
public parksd microbiological quality
indicated or equivalent
treatment
Advantages of UASB Technology
B Irrigation of cereal Workers 1 No standard Retention in stabilization
crops, industrial crops, recommended ponds for 8-10 days or
The cost of UASB plant is significantly lower than that of aerobic plant; fodder crops, pasture equivalent helminth and
and treese faecal coliform removal
This has a negligible number of electrical and mechanical components,
C Localized irrigation of None Not applicable Not applicable Pretreatment as
thus requiring low degree of maintenance and saves operational and crops in category B if required by irrigation
maintenance cost. Thus also eliminates possibilities of problem that may exposure to workers technology but not less
and the public does than primary
arise in case of brake down of highly maintained intensive process; not occur sedimentation

The energy requirement in the UASB reactor is very low;

UASB system generates energy in the form of bio gas which can be used
for the production of electricity and which can make UASB plants self
sustaining for power requirement;
This system reduces the space requirement, which is a big advantage for
developing cities;
The production of excess sludge in a UASB reactor is very low. This
reduces the load on the sludge treatment system. However, the sludge
from UASB plant is very stabilized and can be used as manure;
Final polishing pond can be used for fish culture, which can be source of
revenue. a
In specific cases, local epidemiological, sociocultural and environmental factors should be taken into account
and the guidelines modified accordingly.
b
Ascaris and Trichuris species and hookworms.
c
During the irrigation period.
d
A more stringent guideline limit (4200 faecal coliforms/100 ml) is appropriate for public lawns, such as hotel
lawns, with which the public may come into direct contact.
e
In the case of fruit trees, irrigation should cease two weeks before fruit is picked, and no fruit should be picked off
the ground. Sprinkler irrigation should not be used.

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