Andhra Pradesh approves treated wastewater reuse policy for all 123 urban bodies to boost water security

The Andhra Pradesh government has approved the policy on Reuse of Treated Used Water, 2026, introducing a comprehensive framework for the collection, treatment, allocation, pricing, monitoring and reuse of treated wastewater across all 123 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). The policy is aimed at strengthening long-term water security, reducing freshwater consumption, promoting a circular economy and supporting climate-resilient urban development under the Swarna Andhra Vision 2047 of Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu.

The policy seeks to transform treated wastewater into a valuable resource for non-potable uses, including industrial use, construction, landscaping, municipal services, parks, road cleaning, fire-fighting, railway yards, bus depots, ports and, where feasible, agriculture, S. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary, Municipal Administration and Urban Development, said on Thursday (June 25, 2026).

The policy also aims to curb the discharge of untreated wastewater into natural water bodies and reduce dependence on freshwater sources.

The government has set phased targets to ensure that at least 20% of urban water demand is met through treated used water. The target covers 20 ULBs by 2027, 40 by 2028, 90 by 2029 and all 123 ULBs by 2030. At the State level, the policy targets meeting 20% of industrial water demand through treated water by 2028 and 40% by 2030.

The policy mandates the use of treated water by thermal power plants within 50 km of sewage treatment plants, industries with water demand exceeding 10 KLD located within 10 km of ULBs, commercial establishments such as car-washing units, construction projects and other bulk users. It also promotes dual plumbing systems in future housing and commercial developments for flushing and other non-potable purposes.

To ensure safe implementation, treated water will be supplied only in accordance with quality standards prescribed by competent authorities, and will not be permitted for potable use or applications involving direct human contact. Dedicated institutional mechanisms, including TUW Cells at ULBs, a State-Level Technical Committee, a High-Powered Committee and district-level enforcement committees, will oversee implementation, monitoring and compliance. The policy also proposes an online management information system to track the production, quality, pricing and utilisation of treated water across the State.