The Business Bytes
ROURKELA, JUNE 25, 2024 (TBB BUREAU):Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) has underscored its commitment to environmental sustainability through the adoption of several advanced Environment Management technologies and practices. A significant milestone in this endeavour is the rapid progress of the Treatment System-1 project, a cornerstone of its Zero Liquid Discharge initiative, showcasing the plant’s dedication to a greener ecosystem. This pioneering system, the first of its kind within SAIL, has been constructed at a cost of approximately Rs. 140 crore.
Led by RSP Director-In-Charge (DIC) Atanu Bhowmick, the Treatment System-1 was commissioned on April 30, 2024, and is currently advancing through its stabilization phase.
Traditionally, wastewater generated at RSP has been directed to a polishing unit known as the ‘Lagoon,’ with treated water subsequently discharged into the River Brahmani. However, with the operationalization of Treatment System-1, the plant will now treat and reuse 1800 cubic metres per hour of effluent water within its operations. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce freshwater consumption for steel production, conserving valuable water resources and minimizing the environmental footprint associated with wastewater discharge. Moreover, it aligns with stringent environmental regulations governing water usage and discharge, while enhancing overall plant efficiency by reducing the demand for water treatment chemicals and associated energy consumption.
The project is being executed under the supervision of Tarun Misra, ED (P&A) and acting ED (Projects), and is supported by a dedicated team including AN Mishra, CGM (Projects); Dillip Kumar Sahoo, GM (Projects); Debajit Rabha, GM In-charge (Water Management Department) as Project Owner; VK Yadav, AGM (Projects) as Project Manager; and VVR Murthy, GM (Environment) as Project Coordinator. The mega project is slated for stabilization by the end of June.
Ahmedabad-based Arvind Envisol is the executing agency for the project, with Ranchi’s MECON serving as the project consultant.
Notably, RSP continues to implement multiple projects under its Zero Liquid Discharge plan, aiming to further increase the volume of treated water recirculated into the plant’s water grid. This strategic approach not only minimizes freshwater intake but also ensures zero wastewater discharge into rivers, reinforcing RSP’s environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
