Sun Sep 07 13:54:39 UTC 2025: ## Summary:
A planned 2 MLD sewage treatment plant (STP) by the Coimbatore Corporation to address wastewater flowing through a stream near Coimbatore International Airport is facing scrutiny. Experts, including researchers from Siruthuli, say the current flow of wastewater is significantly higher (10.1 MLD) than the proposed STP’s capacity. The stream is heavily polluted with effluent from residential and commercial sources, exceeding permissible Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) limits. Concerns are also raised about the underperformance and high operational costs of similar STPs in the city. While the Corporation Commissioner assures the plant will be designed for future expansion and expects reduced flow after completion of underground drainage works, experts emphasize the need for advanced treatment technologies and strict maintenance for effective wastewater treatment.
## News Article:
**Coimbatore Airport Sewage Threat: Proposed Treatment Plant Capacity Questioned**
**Coimbatore, India – September 7, 2025** – Concerns are mounting over the effectiveness of a planned sewage treatment plant (STP) intended to address severe wastewater pollution impacting Coimbatore International Airport. The Coimbatore Corporation intends to establish a 2 million litres per day (MLD) STP to treat sewage flowing through a natural stream that passes through the airport premises. However, experts are warning that the plant’s capacity may be insufficient to tackle the problem.
A recent pilot study by Siruthuli, an environmental organization, revealed that the stream currently carries approximately 10.1 MLD of wastewater, significantly exceeding the planned STP’s capacity. The stream is heavily contaminated with untreated effluent from nearby residential and commercial establishments, resulting in alarmingly high levels of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), well beyond permissible limits.
“The current facilities [STPs in Coimbatore] are burdened by elevated energy consumption and significant operational costs,” stated R. Ilangovan, former Vice-Chairman of the Tamil Nadu Water Resources Cell. He stressed the urgent need for “advanced treatment technologies, alongside strict maintenance protocols, is imperative to ensure effective and sustainable wastewater treatment.”
While Corporation Commissioner M. Sivaguru Prabakaran acknowledged the discrepancy between the stream’s current flow and the STP’s capacity, he assured that the plant would be designed for future expansion. He also expressed hope that the completion of the city’s underground drainage works will reduce the stream’s flow, allowing the STP to operate more efficiently.
The issue highlights the growing challenges of waste management in urban India and the need for sustainable and effective solutions to prevent environmental degradation. The underperformance of existing treatment facilities and the potential inadequacy of the proposed STP raise questions about the long-term impact of untreated wastewater on the airport’s environment and the broader community. Further scrutiny and robust implementation strategies will be crucial to ensure the success of the project and protect Coimbatore from the growing threat of water pollution.
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