Rao Narbir urges farmers to use treated water for irrigation

Haryana Environment, Forest, Wildlife, and Industry Minister Rao Narbir Singh on Friday urged farmers in Farrukhnagar and Pataudi to actively participate in the state’s water conservation efforts by adopting treated water from sewage treatment plants (STPs) for irrigation.

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After inspecting the STP channel between Gurugram and Jhajjar, Rao said, “A plan is underway to supply treated water to around 30 villages for agricultural and horticultural use. I will personally engage with local farmers next week to encourage their participation in this initiative.”

The minister stressed the urgency of preserving groundwater, highlighting the growing demand for potable water. “We aim to promote the use of treated water for farming so that canal water can be reserved for drinking purposes,” he added.

Rao inspected the STP channel carrying treated water from the Dhanwapur plant to Jhajjar. Currently, 75 MLD (million litres per day) of treated water is released into the 500 MLD capacity channel, benefitting Jhajjar farmers. Dhanwapur’s total treatment capacity is 218 MLD.

He directed the Haryana State Pollution Control Board to ensure strict use of treated water in all construction projects. “It has come to our attention that several builders have installed STPs but are not maintaining them. I’ve asked officials to inspect these sites and issue challans if violations are found,” Rao said.

The minister also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to the Centre’s mission to clean the Yamuna. He plans to inspect the Badshahpur drain in Gurugram next week and announced two new 100 MLD STPs in Bahrampur by 2028 to improve urban wastewater treatment.