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Andhra Pradesh Approves Policy on Reuse of Treated Wastewater for Urban Local Bodies

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On 26 June 2026, Andhra Pradesh approved the "Policy on Reuse of Treated Used Water, 2026" to bolster water security through sustainable wastewater management across all 123 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in the state. The policy defines a framework for collection, treatment, allocation, pricing, monitoring, and reuse of treated wastewater for non-potable uses such as industrial processes, construction, landscaping, municipal services, and firefighting. It sets phased targets to ensure reuse meets at least 20% of urban water demand by 2030 and mandates specific reuse percentages for industries and thermal power plants near sewage treatment plants. The initiative aligns with the state’s Swarna Andhra Vision 2047, aiming at urban water conservation and climate resilience.

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Key Facts

  • Policy approved on 26 June 2026, applies to all 123 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in Andhra Pradesh.
  • Phased implementation targets: 20 ULBs by 2027, 40 by 2028, 90 by 2029, and all 123 by 2030.
  • Target to meet at least 20% of urban water demand through reuse of treated wastewater by 2030.
  • Industrial reuse targets: at least 20% by 2028 and 40% by 2030.
  • Mandates reuse by thermal power plants within 50 km of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) and industries with water demand over 10 KLD within 10 km of ULBs.
  • Encourages dual plumbing systems in future housing and commercial developments for non-potable uses.
  • Treated wastewater is defined as sewage water treated in STPs, used only for non-potable purposes.

Background & Context

Andhra Pradesh faces increasing urban water scarcity and groundwater depletion due to population growth and urban expansion. This policy aims to reduce dependency on freshwater sources by converting treated wastewater, a resource often regarded as waste, into a valuable supply for non-potable urban and industrial uses. The policy aligns with the international principle that higher quality (potable) water should not be used where lower-grade treated water suffices, thus promoting efficient water resource management.

The policy is a key component of the state's Swarna Andhra Vision 2047, which emphasizes long-term urban water security and climate resilience. It fosters a circular water economy by integrating wastewater reuse into urban water conservation strategies, thereby reducing pollution and enhancing sustainability.

Why This Matters for Exams / Exam Relevance

This policy illustrates a state-led approach toward sustainable water management, urban governance, environmental policy, and climate resilience—all key components of syllabus areas dealing with resource management and sustainable development. The approval date, comprehensive coverage of 123 ULBs, phased reuse targets, and integration with Swarna Andhra Vision 2047 are important details likely to be encountered in competitive exams focusing on recent policy initiatives.

Points to Remember

  • Andhra Pradesh’s Policy on Reuse of Treated Used Water, 2026, was approved on 26 June 2026 covering all 123 Urban Local Bodies.
  • The policy mandates phased reuse of treated wastewater to meet 20% of urban water demand by 2030.
  • Industrial reuse targets are 20% by 2028 and 40% by 2030.
  • Treated wastewater is restricted to non-potable uses such as industrial processing, construction, landscaping, municipal services, firefighting, railway yards, and bus depots.
  • Thermal power plants and industries located near sewage treatment infrastructure are obliged to reuse treated water.
  • The policy supports dual plumbing in future developments and treats wastewater as a commodity with pricing linked to revenue and public-private partnerships.
  • Aligns with Swarna Andhra Vision 2047 focusing on sustainable urban development and climate resilience.
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