Construction of Integrated Packaged Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) on Turnkey Basis (Specialised Work)

The N.O.W. (National Objective Works) project for the Development of Land at Sector G7/G8, Narela, represents a significant step towards strengthening urban environmental infrastructure in one of Delhi’s rapidly developing sub-cities. A key component of this initiative is the design, supply, installation, construction, and operation of an integrated packaged-type Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) with a total treatment capacity of 7.87 MLD, based on Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) technology, located in Pockets 5, 6, and 7 of Sector G7/G8, Narela. This specialised work is being executed on a turnkey basis, ensuring end-to-end responsibility and long-term operational reliability.
Background and Need for the Project
Narela has been planned as a major urban extension of Delhi, accommodating residential, institutional, and commercial developments. With increasing population density and urban activity, the generation of domestic wastewater has risen significantly. In the absence of adequate sewage treatment infrastructure, untreated sewage can lead to contamination of surface water bodies, groundwater pollution, public health risks, and environmental degradation.
The establishment of a decentralised, integrated STP at Sector G7/G8 directly addresses these challenges. The project is designed to ensure safe collection, treatment, and disposal or reuse of sewage, thereby supporting sustainable urban growth and compliance with environmental norms.
Scope of Work under the STP Project
The project scope is comprehensive and covers the entire lifecycle of the sewage treatment system. It includes:
- Design and engineering of the STP based on projected sewage loads and effluent quality standards
- Supply and installation of packaged treatment units, mechanical and electrical equipment
- Civil construction works, including foundations, tanks, control rooms, and ancillary structures
- Integration of treatment processes for Pockets 5, 6, and 7, achieving a combined capacity of 7.87 MLD
- Testing, commissioning, and stabilisation of the plant
- Operation and maintenance (O&M) for the specified period under the turnkey arrangement
Being classified as specialised work, the project demands high technical expertise, precision engineering, and strict quality control.
MBBR Technology and Its Advantages
The Sewage Treatment Plant is based on MBBR (Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor) technology, which is widely adopted for urban wastewater treatment due to its efficiency and compact design. In this system, specially designed bio-media are suspended within the aeration tank, providing a large surface area for microbial growth. These microorganisms break down organic pollutants in the sewage.
Key advantages of MBBR technology include:
- High treatment efficiency with consistent effluent quality
- Compact footprint, suitable for space-constrained urban areas
- Lower sludge generation, reducing handling and disposal costs
- Operational flexibility, capable of handling load fluctuations
- Ease of operation and maintenance, making it ideal for decentralised STPs
These benefits make MBBR technology particularly appropriate for residential pockets like those in Sector G7/G8, Narela.
Turnkey Basis and Operational Responsibility
Execution on a turnkey basis means that a single specialised agency is responsible for delivering the complete STP—from concept and design to construction and operation. This approach minimises coordination issues, ensures accountability, and improves overall project efficiency.
Inclusion of operation within the project scope ensures that the plant does not remain underutilised after construction. Proper operation during the initial years helps stabilise biological processes, train personnel, and ensure compliance with prescribed discharge standards.
Financial Details and Project Timeline
The estimated project cost for the Sewage Treatment Plant is ₹13.83 crore, reflecting the specialised nature of the work and the advanced treatment technology involved. The sanctioned cost stands at ₹12.58 crore, indicating careful financial structuring under the N.O.W. and UDF-aligned framework.
The project commenced on 08 February 2021, marking the start of implementation activities at the site. The investment underscores the importance of environmental infrastructure as a foundation for sustainable urban development.
Environmental and Urban Significance
The STP at Sector G7/G8 plays a crucial role in improving the environmental performance of Narela. By treating sewage at the local level, it prevents pollution of downstream drains and water bodies, protects groundwater quality, and improves overall sanitation conditions.
Treated effluent from the plant can potentially be reused for horticulture, landscaping, flushing, and other non-potable purposes, reducing dependence on freshwater sources. This aligns with broader goals of water conservation and circular urban water management.
Long-Term Benefits
The long-term benefits of this STP project include:
- Improved public health and sanitation standards
- Reduced environmental pollution
- Compliance with regulatory norms
- Support for future urban expansion in Narela
- Creation of resilient and self-sufficient urban infrastructure
By integrating treatment, operation, and maintenance within a single project framework, the initiative ensures durability and sustainability of assets.
Conclusion
The N.O.W. project for the construction of an integrated packaged-type Sewage Treatment Plant at Sector G7/G8, Narela, is a vital infrastructure intervention supporting sustainable urban development in Delhi’s expanding periphery. With a treatment capacity of 7.87 MLD, adoption of MBBR-based technology, execution on a turnkey basis, and a project cost of ₹13.83 crore (sanctioned ₹12.58 crore), commenced on 08.02.2021, the project exemplifies a technically sound and environmentally responsible approach to wastewater management. It not only addresses present sanitation needs but also lays the foundation for a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient urban future for Narela.