Cross learning workshop: Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants

Faecal sludge treatment plants (FSTPs) play a vital role in effective sanitation management, public health promotion, and safeguarding the environment. However, the operationalisation and long-term sustainability of FSTPs present significant challenges that need to be addressed.

Bangladesh is planning to set up 95 FSTPs -- 18 of which are already operational and the rest are under construction: it is crucial for the country, therefore, to tackle the operationalisation hurdles. FSTPs are now being operated and maintained under the Build Operate and Transfer (BOT) model. To ensure smooth operations, municipalities need to be equipped with the necessary skills and capacities.

Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), India and Water Aid, Bangladesh conducting their crosslearning workshop, which has been designed as a platform to bring together experts, practitioners, policymakers, and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, with the goal of fostering knowledge exchange, sharing best practices, and discussing strategies for ensuring successful operation and sustainability of FSTPs.

WORKSHOP HIGHLIGHTS

• Insightful presentations on the role of FSTPs in sanitation management, public health promotion, and environmental safeguarding.
• Sharing of experiences and lessons learnt from the implementation and operation of FSTPs in Bangladesh and Uttar Pradesh, India.
• Interactive sessions to discuss challenges, innovative solutions, and best practices for sustaining FSTPs in the long run.
• Capacity-building to equip municipalities with the necessary skills to effectively handle FSTP operations.
• Networking opportunities to foster collaboration among stakeholders and promote future partnerships.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

• Enhanced understanding of FSTP technologies, operational and monitoring challenges, and strategies for effective O&M
• Knowledge-sharing on financing models, revenue generation, and sustainability strategies.
• Identification of policy and regulatory gaps and recommendations for improvement.
• Strengthened collaboration among stakeholders for collective action towards sustainable FSTP management.
• Health and safety in FSTP operations and maintenance, and laboratory monitoring protocols.

For more details, contact:

SUMITA SINGHAL
Programme Manager
Water Programme
Centre for Science and Environment
Email: sumita.singhal@cseindia.org
Phone: +91 8884646146