Last Updated: September 30, 2022
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham has implemented a number of processes to prevent polluted water from entering the water system, including pollution caused by accidents and incidents at the university. These processes include:
In addition to these general processes, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham has also implemented a number of specific measures to prevent pollution from entering the water system. For example, the university has:
In the event of an accident or incident that releases pollutants into the environment, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s spill prevention and response plan is activated. This plan includes procedures for:
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is committed to protecting the environment and preventing polluted water from entering the water system. The university’s comprehensive pollution prevention program includes regular water quality monitoring, wastewater treatment, spill prevention and response, and educational programs for staff and students.
| Date | Treated water in (L) |
|---|---|
| 22-July-2022 | 411518 |
| 22-July-2022 | 404175 |
| 22-July-2022 | 416287 |
| 22-July-2022 | 415654 |
| 22-July-2022 | 424425 |
| 22-July-2022 | 418391 |
| 22-July-2022 | 418917 |
| 22-July-2022 | 421200 |
| 22-July-2022 | 416192 |
| 22-July-2022 | 426543 |
Amrita doesnt consider waste water as waste but as a source of water to substitute fresh water extracted from ground and surface.
Highlights
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham has demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental sustainability through its advanced wastewater management systems. As part of its sustainable campus policy, the university has implemented stringent standards for wastewater treatment, ensuring that all effluent is processed in an environmentally responsible manner.
Amrita successfully reuses 80% of its water, significantly reducing its reliance on external water sources and contributing to a sustainable water cycle on campus. The university has eliminated all pit toilets, ensuring that waste is efficiently treated through a centralized, state-of-the-art sewage treatment system. This contributes to improved sanitation and environmental quality across the campus. The campus strictly adheres to No Septic Tank Policy under Sustainable Campus Policy to ensure no contamination of groundwater. The campus has a capacity to treat water in the range of 3 BoD to 20 BoD meeting the water needs for cooling tower, irrigation, flushing, boiler, construction etc.
Separate Wastewater pipeline has been laid in the entire campus to collect water from kitchen, toilets, laboratory to achieve 100% wastewater collection and treatment.
Amrita’s STP system, which operates in real-time, allows continuous monitoring of parameters at all stages of the wastewater treatment process. This system provides comprehensive data on the quality of treated water, ensuring it meets the necessary standards for reuse or safe discharge. The real-time connectivity allows for immediate action in case of any discrepancies, enhancing the system’s efficiency and reliability. The state-of-the-art technology used in the STP system is one of the best available, incorporating advanced techniques to achieve optimal wastewater treatment.
The university operates three state-of-the-art Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) with a combined capacity of 1.4 million liters per day (1,400 cubic meters per day) in each campus. These plants utilize an aerobic treatment process and an activated sludge mechanism, ensuring that wastewater is processed without the use of chemicals. Strategically located across the campus, these facilities completely operate renewable energy and maximizes operational efficiency and accessibility.
This chemical-free treatment process has treated 1,300 kiloliters (KL) of sewage water over the past three years, which is then recycled for use in toilet flushing, arboriculture, and gardening. This initiative has significantly contributed to the conservation of freshwater and the maintenance of a green environment on campus. The STPs produce approximately 13 lakh liters of recycled water daily. The treated water is rich in nutrients, providing micronutrients and organic carbon (NPK) to promote plant and crop growth. A new, advanced 4LL capacity STP (STP-IV) is planned for construction in the academic year 2025-26.
The treated water is recycled for various purposes, including toilet flushing, arboriculture, and gardening construction . Each day, approximately 1.3 million liters (1,300 cubic meters) of treated water are reused, significantly reducing the demand for fresh water on campus.
We have an in-house water testing facility, which plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality of both wastewater and treated water. This facility allows for regular testing and analysis, ensuring that the treated water complies with the highest environmental standards. In addition to in-house testing, external agencies conduct independent checks to verify that there is no leakage or contamination, reinforcing the university’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its water systems.
Nutrient-rich sludge generated during treatment, containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, is repurposed as organic fertilizer. This fertilizer supports agricultural and landscaping initiatives on the university grounds, promoting sustainable land use.
Chemicals, oils and lubricants which are generated from laboratories, automotive research labs are stored in designated containers in a secure area and disposed through specialiseed agencies
The STPs are equipped with advanced monitoring systems to ensure water quality meets regulatory standards. Parameters such as Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and pH levels are continuously tracked. Regular testing ensures compliance with Tamil Nadu State Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) guidelines, maintaining a high standard of environmental stewardship.
To maintain the efficiency of its infrastructure, the university has implemented a rigorous inspection schedule supported by a log card system. This system tracks the condition of pipelines, coolers, tanks, and storage units, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing water losses due to leaks.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
The university’s environmental initiatives extend beyond wastewater treatment. A strict “No Septic Tank” policy prevents groundwater contamination, while the construction of check dams supports aquifer recharge and maintains pollution-free water channels. Together, these measures contribute to the overall health of the local ecosystem.
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s green initiatives include the planting of 180,000 trees, many of which are medicinal or herbal, over the past decade. These efforts are complemented by the establishment of two herbal gardens and the Amritavanam rainforest, which enhance ecological balance and support water conservation. All wastewater treatment activities adhere to national and international environmental standards, reinforcing the university’s commitment to sustainability.
Supporting SDG 6.3.1
The university’s wastewater treatment systems align with the objectives of UN Sustainable Development Goal 6.3.1. High-efficiency STPs recycle 1.3 million liters of wastewater daily, conserving fresh water resources while promoting the reuse of treated water for sustainable landscaping and agriculture. Regular audits and third-party water quality certifications ensure compliance with environmental standards. Moreover, the conversion of nutrient-rich sludge into organic compost exemplifies the innovative reuse of by-products to minimize waste.
Innovation and Expansion Initiatives
To enhance wastewater management capabilities, a new STP with a capacity of 400 cubic meters is planned for the 2025–26 academic year. The campus has also integrated rainwater harvesting systems with its wastewater treatment operations, harvesting 5,500 cubic meters of rainwater annually across 16 strategic locations. This integration exemplifies resource conservation at a systemic level.
Research on Waste Water Treatment