Andhra Pradesh Approves Treated Wastewater Reuse Policy

Andhra Pradesh approved the Policy on Reuse of Treated Used Water, 2026 on 26 June 2026 for urban bodies across the state. The policy covers 123 Urban Local Bodies and creates a framework for collection, treatment, allocation, pricing, monitoring, and reuse of treated wastewater.

Treated Wastewater Reuse

Treated wastewater is sewage water that has undergone treatment in a Sewage Treatment Plant and is then used for non-potable purposes. Non-potable use includes industrial processes, construction, landscaping, municipal services, firefighting, railway yards, and bus depots.

Coverage and Phased Targets

The policy sets phased implementation targets for urban local bodies in Andhra Pradesh. The target is 20 ULBs by 2027, 40 ULBs by 2028, 90 ULBs by 2029, and all 123 ULBs by 2030. The policy also requires that at least 20% of urban water demand is met through reuse. For industries, the policy mandates 20% reuse by 2028 and 40% by 2030.

Industrial and Urban Use Norms

The policy applies specific reuse conditions to thermal power plants within 50 km of sewage treatment plants and to industries with water demand exceeding 10 KLD within 10 km of Urban Local Bodies. KLD stands for kilolitres per day, a unit used to measure daily water demand. Treated water will be priced as a commodity under the policy. The pricing model is linked to revenue generation for urban local bodies and to public-private partnerships in reuse infrastructure.

Important Facts for Exams

• Urban Local Bodies in India include municipal corporations, municipalities, and nagar panchayats.
• Wastewater reuse is a component of circular water management and urban water conservation.
• Non-potable water is water not meant for drinking or cooking.
• Sewage Treatment Plants are used to treat domestic and municipal wastewater before discharge or reuse.

Policy Context

The policy is aligned with Swarna Andhra Vision 2047, a long-term development framework linked to urban water security and climate resilience. It also covers monitoring and allocation mechanisms for treated water across urban areas. Municipal Administration and Urban Development is the administrative domain for the policy in Andhra Pradesh. The policy date, coverage, and reuse targets make it relevant for questions on urban governance and water management.