Wastewater Treatment plant

The wastewater treatment plant at Galgotias University represents a pivotal initiative in addressing the growing challenge of water scarcity and environmental sustainability. This facility not only ensures the safe treatment of wastewater generated within the campus but also demonstrates advanced technologies for water reuse and resource recovery. The plant is strategically located within the university campus to promote eco-conscious practices and serve as an educational resource for students.

This report details the infrastructure, processes, and sustainability outcomes of the wastewater treatment plant, highlighting its alignment with global goals for sustainable development.

 Objectives

1. To treat campus-generated wastewater to environmentally safe standards.
2. To promote water recycling for non-potable purposes.
3. To reduce the university’s carbon footprint by integrating sustainable practices.

Technical Processes

The treatment plant incorporates a combination of physical, biological, and chemical processes to ensure the effective removal of contaminants. The major treatment stages are as follows:

1. Preliminary Treatment

This stage involves the removal of large debris and grit to prevent damage to downstream equipment. Processes includes Screening for the removal of large solids such as plastic and paper followed by Grit Removal for the separation of sand and other coarse particles using grit chambers.

2. Primary Treatment

In this stage, sedimentation tanks are used to allow suspended solids to settle at the bottom, while oils and grease are skimmed from the surface. This reduces the solid load entering the secondary treatment stage.

3. Secondary (Biological) Treatment

The biological treatment process utilizes a Moving Bed Bioreactor (MBBR) technology. In this system:

• Microorganisms break down organic matter in the wastewater.
• The MBBR setup, consisting of biofilm carriers, ensures efficient decomposition of pollutants.

4. Tertiary Treatment

The final stage focuses on advanced purification techniques to meet water quality standards. This includes:

• Filtration:Multi-grade filters (MGF) and activated carbon filters remove fine particles and residual contaminants.
• Disinfection:Chlorination is employed to eliminate pathogens.

Water Reuse and Environmental Impact

Water Recycling: The treated water is primarily reused for the following purposes:

1. Gardening:Irrigation of campus green spaces.
2. Flushing:Water supply for toilet flushing systems.
3. Irrigation:Supporting nearby agricultural activities.

Environmental Benefits

• Safe disposal of excess treated water into local water bodies minimizes ecological harm.
• Reduces dependency on freshwater sources, promoting sustainable water management.
• Mitigates pollution by preventing untreated wastewater discharge.

Educational and Practical Impact

Student Awareness Program

As part of the university’s curriculum, undergraduate students from the Bachelor of Technology program regularly visit the treatment plant. These visits aim to:

1. Enhance understanding of wastewater treatment processes.
2. Foster awareness of water conservation techniques.
3. Demonstrate the practical application of engineering principles in environmental management.

Research Opportunities

The facility serves as a live laboratory for:

• Conducting research on advanced wastewater treatment technologies.
• Developing innovative solutions for water reuse and waste management.

Department Name – Department of Civil Engineering

Related Goal