The Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) is exploring the feasibility of using treated wastewater for firefighting operations as part of its broader strategy to reduce dependence on freshwater for non-potable uses. The proposal was discussed during a review meeting chaired by GMDA Chief Executive Officer PC Meena, which assessed the utilization of treated water generated by sewage treatment plants across the city.
Proposal Details
Officials stated that the authority would examine the viability of supplying tertiary-treated water to fire stations, which currently rely on freshwater sources to fill fire tenders. If implemented, this initiative could help conserve potable water while expanding the reuse of recycled wastewater. The move aligns with GMDA's goal of maximizing the reuse of treated wastewater across Gurgaon.
Fire Department's Perspective
Fire department officials acknowledged the proposal's potential but emphasized that water quality and accessibility during emergencies would be critical factors. A fire department official explained, "The idea can work if the quality of treated water is maintained consistently and the required infrastructure is developed. We have used treated water in certain situations earlier as well. However, if the water contains oil, chemicals or other impurities, it can damage pumps, impellers and other firefighting equipment."
Officials added that firefighting operations are time-sensitive and depend on the availability of water close to the incident site. "During emergencies, we draw water from the nearest available source, including municipal supply systems or industrial units if required. The feasibility of using treated water will depend on the availability of infrastructure near fire stations and consistent water quality," the official said.
Infrastructure and Quality Concerns
According to fire officials, poor-quality water can corrode or clog pumping systems, leading to costly repairs and affecting operational readiness. At present, Gurgaon has seven fire stations located in Bhim Nagar, Sector 29, Udyog Vihar, Sector 37, Manesar, Pataudi, and Sohna. Officials noted that freshwater from municipal supply systems remains the primary source for firefighting operations.
Broader Wastewater Reuse Efforts
The proposal is part of GMDA's broader push to maximize the reuse of tertiary-treated wastewater. During the meeting, Meena directed officials to work towards ensuring that no treated water is discharged into the Najafgarh drain and set a six-month target for achieving 100% reuse. Currently, around 143 million liters per day (MLD) of treated water from the Dhanwapur sewage treatment plant is used for irrigation. Another 70 MLD from the Behrampur plant is utilized for industrial purposes, groundwater recharge, and maintenance of parks, green belts, and water bodies.
Nearly 10 MLD of treated water from the Behrampur STP is also supplied to textile units through a dedicated pipeline network and pumping infrastructure developed by the industry itself. Chairman of the textile association, Anil Jain, said that textile units had invested significantly in infrastructure to facilitate the use of treated water, adding that the quality of the treated water supplied by GMDA was among the best in Haryana.
Recharging Water Bodies and Future Plans
The authority is also using treated wastewater to recharge water bodies, including ponds in Sakatpur, Tikli, and Silokhra villages. During the meeting, representatives of non-governmental organizations proposed creating additional water bodies in nearby hilly areas for storing treated water. Meena directed officials to examine the feasibility of this proposal.
Officials further stated that two ongoing sewage treatment plant upgradation projects with capacities of 90 MLD and 75 MLD are expected to be completed by August 2027, making an additional 165 MLD of treated water available for reuse. Meena directed officials to plan the required distribution infrastructure, including hydrants and supply arrangements, in advance to ensure optimum utilization of the additional treated water.
Revenue Generation and Goals
According to GMDA, the authority currently generates around Rs 30 lakh in revenue from the sale of treated water to industrial consumers. Meena emphasized, "Complete reuse of treated wastewater will help conserve freshwater resources, reduce groundwater extraction and increase revenue generation. The goal is to make Gurgaon a model city in wastewater recycling and reuse."
