Greater Noida : Facing a serious environmental and public health concern as several residential societies have been found shutting down their sewage treatment plants (STPs) or operating them improperly. As a result, untreated sewage is being released directly into open drains and vacant areas, increasing the risk of water pollution and the spread of diseases.
According to the Greater Noida Authority, untreated sewage contaminates water sources and leads to the rapid growth of mosquitoes and insects. This significantly raises the risk of diseases such as dengue, malaria and cholera. Taking the matter seriously, the authority has issued notices to around 200 housing societies for violating environmental norms.
During inspections, officials found that many STPs had been lying non-functional for a long time. In several cases, sewage was being discharged directly into drains without any treatment. In Ajnara Homes, Greater Noida West, penalty of ₹54 crore has been imposed for gross violations.
STP operation is mandatory
Completion certificates were issued to these societies only after the installation of STPs. As per rules, it is mandatory to operate these plants regularly to ensure proper treatment and safe disposal of sewage. However, inspections revealed that many societies were not following these norms.
Sunil Kumar, ACEO, Greater Noida Authority
In a shocking revelation, officials found that in Ajnara Homes, management had deliberately punctured internal pipelines to divert sewage into a basement area where a new tower is proposed to be constructed. Releasing untreated sewage inside buildings and in open areas is not only a clear violation of environmental regulations but also poses a serious health hazard.
Considering the gravity of the violation, the authority imposed a fine of ₹50 crore on Ajnara Society. In addition, the health department levied an extra penalty of ₹4 crore for non-compliance with bulk waste generator rules, taking the total fine to ₹54 crore.
Action against more societies
The ACEO clarified that the action is not limited to one society. Nearly 200 societies across Greater Noida have been identified where STPs exist but are not being operated. Notices have been issued to all of them and verification is being carried out on the ground by authority teams.
He added that the aim of this drive is not just punitive action but also to create awareness among society managements about their responsibility towards environmental protection and public health. The authority has made it clear that strict action will continue against those who fail to comply with the rules.