CREDAI-Visakhapatnam Advocates for Centralized STP Management in Apartment Complexes
In Visakhapatnam, growing concerns over the functioning of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) in large apartment complexes have prompted CREDAI-Visakhapatnam to call for a structured and centralized mechanism. This initiative aims to ensure safety, efficiency, and strict environmental compliance across residential developments.
Current Challenges in STP Operations
According to government regulations, high-rise residential buildings with more than 100 dwelling units are mandated to install STPs. These systems are crucial for wastewater treatment and recycling, yet their routine operation is typically transferred to apartment associations after project completion. Due to limited in-house technical expertise, many associations engage third-party agencies to manage these plants.
E Ashok Kumar, president of the CREDAI-Visakhapatnam chapter, emphasized the seriousness of the issue. He noted that the lack of proper scrutiny in appointing operators has led to significant problems. "Several apartment associations are entrusting STP operations to agencies without adequately checking their technical capability or track record. This has resulted in operational breakdowns and, in some instances, safety risks," he stated.
Accountability and Regulatory Gaps
Kumar highlighted that when STPs fail, accountability often reverts to builders even after handover. Under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, promoters are required to maintain essential services, including STPs, and remain liable for five years post-possession to address structural or service-related defects under Section 14(3).
"At present, there is no structured system for periodic technical audits or inspections of STPs once they are transferred to resident associations. This gap is leading to long-term operational and compliance challenges," he explained. This regulatory void exacerbates risks in fast-growing urban areas like Visakhapatnam.
Proposed Centralized Solution
To tackle these issues, CREDAI-Visakhapatnam has proposed establishing community-level STPs on government-allocated land near clusters of high-rise developments. These centralized facilities would be managed by technically qualified agencies, with apartment communities contributing a nominal user fee for maintenance.
Kumar elaborated on the benefits of this approach: "This will ensure professional management, better monitoring, and lower risk. It also reduces the burden on individual associations that do not have the required technical know-how." He pointed to similar systems in parts of Karnataka, where specialized operators handle STPs in large residential zones, as a successful model.
Environmental and Policy Implications
If implemented in Andhra Pradesh, this model could enhance the safety and efficiency of STPs. Treated water could be reused for public gardens and urban greenery, supporting environmental sustainability and water conservation efforts.
CREDAI asserts that with policy support and coordination among government agencies, builders, and resident associations, the proposed system can significantly improve wastewater management standards. This is particularly vital in rapidly expanding cities like Visakhapatnam, where effective STP operations are essential for urban health and environmental protection.
The call for a centralized mechanism underscores the need for collaborative efforts to address infrastructure challenges in India's growing residential sectors, ensuring compliance and sustainability for future developments.
