Prayagraj to Get 3 New STPs Ahead of Maha Kumbh 2025

As Prayagraj gears up for the Maha Kumbh in 2025, the city is set to receive three new sewage treatment plants (STPs) to tackle its pressing sewage and sanitation challenges. Of the 81 drains that flow into the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, 39 remain untapped, posing a significant threat to the cleanliness of these sacred rivers during the massive event scheduled from January 14 to February 26.

In response, the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has approved three new STP projects with a combined cost of Rs 987 crore. These plants, located in Salori (43 MLD, Rs 325 crore), Rasoolabad (90 MLD, Rs 476 crore), and Naini (50 MLD, Rs 186 crore), will collectively boost Prayagraj's sewage treatment capacity from 340 million litres per day (MLD) to 523 MLD. This expansion is crucial, as the city currently generates around 500 MLD of sewage, leaving 160 MLD untreated and flowing into the rivers.

The NMCG is also working closely with local authorities to intercept and divert the 39 untapped drains, ensuring cleaner water for the millions of pilgrims expected at the Maha Kumbh. As part of this effort, the NMCG's executive committee, led by Director General Rajeev Kumar Mital, has sanctioned a Rs 55 crore remediation plan for 22 of these drains during the event. The remaining 17 drains will be managed by local authorities using funds from the Maha Kumbh 2025 budget.

To further ensure sanitation during the event, the NMCG, through its 'Namami Gange' programme, has developed an extensive sanitation plan. This includes the installation of 1.5 lakh community toilets, 20,000 urinals, prefabricated steel toilets, and solid waste bins across the city. Additionally, five new ghats and two crematoria have been constructed to support the cleanliness efforts.

Advanced technologies like remote sensing and GIS are also being employed to assess the impact of the temporary population surge on the city’s sewerage infrastructure and river water quality. With these comprehensive measures, Prayagraj is on track to provide a cleaner and safer environment for the millions of pilgrims attending the Maha Kumbh 2025.

News by Rahul Yelligetti