CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), on Thursday, formally handed over an indigenously developed 500 KLD decentralised Combined Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) for treating textile dyeing effluent and domestic wastewater to the Siripuram gram panchayat in Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district.
Developed with financial support from the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the facility demonstrates how indigenous scientific research and engineering innovation can be translated into practical and scalable solutions for environmental challenges faced by rural textile and handloom clusters, according to an official release.
The facility, earlier inaugurated by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology Jitendra Singh, is expected to benefit nearly 7,000 residents of Siripuram village, part of the renowned Pochampally Ikat handloom cluster, by improving environmental conditions and supporting sustainable livelihoods.
Scientists pointed out that textile dyeing activities generate coloured wastewater containing dyes, salts and organic contaminants. When discharged without adequate treatment, particularly after mixing with domestic wastewater, such effluents can adversely affect local drains, agricultural land, surface water bodies and groundwater resources.
To address this challenge, CSIR-IICT developed the decentralised treatment system specifically for rural and semi-urban textile clusters. The demonstration facility is intended to serve as a technological model that can be replicated and adapted in similar handloom and textile clusters across the country.
“The technology integrates hybrid biological treatment with bio-electrocatalytic processes. It is chemical-free, gravity-assisted and requires minimal maintenance, making it a replicable model for handloom and textile clusters across India,” said S. Venkata Mohan, who conceptualised, designed and implemented the project along with A. Kiran Kumar. Other contributors included Harishankar, Santosh, B. Ravikiran and T. Chandrasekhar.
Explaining the technology, Dr. Mohan said that the system combines multiple biological metabolic pathways with advanced bio-electrocatalytic processes to efficiently degrade complex textile dyes and organic pollutants while ensuring low energy consumption, minimal chemical dependency and water reuse.
Calling it a true “Lab to Loom” initiative, CSIR-IICT Director D. Srinivasa Reddy said that the project translates indigenous research into a practical and sustainable solution for the handloom sector. “We believe this model will contribute to water conservation, pollution prevention and sustainable rural development,” he said.
Nakrekal MLA Vemula Veeresham said that the facility would help protect local water resources, support the livelihoods of handloom artisans and also help showcase the village’s rich handloom heritage. Village Sarpanch Ambati Upendhra, District Panchayat Officer Srinivas Reddy, and other officials were present.
Published – July 23, 2026 07:58 pm IST
