How wastewater plants helps in prevention of waterborne diseases?
Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) and Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs), are essential in preventing waterborne diseases by effectively treating and purifying wastewater before it is released into the environment. Here's how they contribute to disease prevention:
1. Removal of Pathogens: Both STPs and ETPs incorporate processes to eliminate or significantly reduce pathogens (disease-causing microorganisms) present in sewage or industrial effluent. This is typically achieved through biological treatment, where microorganisms break down organic matter, including harmful bacteria and viruses.
2. Disinfection: Disinfection is a crucial step in both types of treatment plants. Chemical disinfectants (such as chlorine) or physical methods (like ultraviolet radiation) are employed to kill or inactivate remaining bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. This ensures that the treated water is safe for release or reuse.
3. Particle Removal: Sedimentation and filtration processes in both STPs and ETPs help remove suspended solids and particles from the water. These particles can harbor and transport pathogens, and their removal contributes to overall water quality improvement.
4. Compliance with Standards: STPs and ETPs operate in accordance with environmental regulations and standards. These standards often include specific criteria for microbial content, ensuring that the treated water meets health and safety requirements.
5. Preventing Contamination of Water Sources: By treating sewage and industrial effluent, these plants prevent the direct discharge of untreated and potentially contaminated water into natural water bodies. This helps safeguard drinking water sources and recreational water bodies from pollution, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases.
In summary, STPs and ETPs play a crucial role in breaking the transmission cycle of waterborne diseases by treating wastewater to stringent standards, removing pathogens, and ensuring that the discharged water is safe for the environment and human contact.