Operation and Maintenance of Faecal Sludge and Septage Management Systems

With the increasing adoption of Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSSM) systems across India, several states have established Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs) to safely manage faecal sludge and septage generated from on-site sanitation systems. Rajasthan has emerged as one of the leading states in implementing FSSM infrastructure, with more than 60 operational FSTPs serving urban local bodies across the state. While substantial investments have been made in developing treatment infrastructure, ensuring the efficient operation and maintenance of these facilities remains essential for achieving long-term environmental, public health, and sanitation objectives.

The effective functioning of FSTPs requires regular monitoring, preventive maintenance, proper documentation, adherence to occupational health and safety protocols, and efficient management of treatment processes. However, recent assessments have highlighted several operational challenges, including inadequate maintenance practices, low plant utilization, monitoring gaps, and limited technical capacity among plant operators and municipal staff. Strengthening the skills and knowledge of practitioners responsible for managing these facilities is therefore critical to improving treatment efficiency and sustainability.

To address these challenges, the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) organized a three-day Residential Training Programme on “Operation and Maintenance of Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSSM) Systems” from 10–12 June 2026 at the Anil Agarwal Environment Training Institute (AAETI), Nimli, Alwar, Rajasthan. The training aimed to build the technical and operational capacities of municipal officials, engineers, plant operators, and sanitation professionals involved in the operation and maintenance of FSSM systems. The programme provided participants with practical knowledge and hands-on exposure to treatment technologies, operational protocols, monitoring systems, occupational health and safety practices, and innovative approaches for improving plant performance and utilization.

Training Methodology

The training followed an interactive and practical learning approach. It included technical presentations, group discussions, quizzes, case studies, laboratory demonstrations, group activities, and a field visit.

The sessions helped participants understand the basics of FSSM, treatment plant operations, maintenance requirements, monitoring systems, and occupational health and safety practices. Participants also learned about common challenges faced by treatment plants and ways to improve their performance.

Group discussions and activities encouraged participants to share their experiences and learn from each other. Laboratory sessions provided exposure to sludge and wastewater testing and monitoring techniques. A field visit to Kishangarh Bas FSTP gave participants an opportunity to observe treatment processes and maintenance practices on the ground.

The combination of classroom sessions and practical exposure helped participants gain a better understanding of FSSM systems and strengthened their ability to manage and maintain treatment plants effectively.

TRAINING COORDINATOR

Vivek Kumar Sah
Programme Officer
Water, CSE
vivek.sah@cseindia.org
+91- 9708887214

TRAINING DIRECTOR

Subrata Chakraborty
Director
Water Programme, CSE
subrata.chakraborty @cseindia.org