Andhra Pradesh Clears Policy on Treated Water Reuse
The policy also encourages dual-piping systems in residential, commercial and institutional buildings for non-potable use, while prohibiting the use of treated water for drinking purposes.
Vijayawada: The Andhra Pradesh government has approved the Policy on Reuse of Treated Used Water, 2026, establishing a framework for the collection, treatment, allocation, pricing and reuse of treated wastewater across all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
Issued by the municipal administration and urban development (MA&UD) department, the policy aims to transform treated wastewater into a valuable resource, reduce dependence on freshwater and strengthen climate resilience under the Swarna Andhra Vision 2047.
With rising urban water demand driven by population growth, industrialisation and climate change, the government has identified treated wastewater reuse as a key strategy for sustainable water management.
The policy envisages phased implementation across all 123 ULBs, with a target of meeting at least 20 per cent of their water demand through treated wastewater. It proposes coverage of 20 ULBs by 2027, 40 by 2028, 90 by 2029 and all 123 ULBs by 2030. At the state level, it aims to meet 20 per cent of industrial water demand through treated water by 2028 and 40 per cent by 2030.
Treated water will be used for non-potable purposes, including industrial operations, construction, landscaping, municipal services, road cleaning, parks, gardens, fire-fighting, railway yards, bus depots and ports. Thermal power plants within 50 km of sewage treatment plants, industries with water demand exceeding 10 KLD and other bulk users will be required to use treated water under specified conditions.
The policy also encourages dual-piping systems in residential, commercial and institutional buildings for non-potable use, while prohibiting the use of treated water for drinking purposes.
A multi-tier governance mechanism comprising ULB-level Treated Used Water Cells, state-level technical and high-powered committees, and district-level enforcement bodies will oversee implementation. An online management information system will provide real-time data on sewage treatment plant output, water quality, tariffs and users.
Municipal administration and urban development minister Dr Ponguru Narayana described the policy as a major step towards building cleaner, greener and water-secure cities. Principal Secretary S. Suresh Kumar said it would promote a circular water economy, reduce pressure on freshwater resources, curb pollution, strengthen municipal finances and support sustainable industrial growth.