The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) is finalizing preparations for the grand inauguration of Asia’s largest wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Okhla, with a capacity of 124 million gallons per day, scheduled for September 30. The event, expected to draw around 6,000 attendees, including Japanese dignitaries, will likely be graced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah as the chief guest, alongside Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Water Minister Parvesh Verma.

“This will not only be the biggest such facility in the country but also the largest in Asia,” a DJB official told PTI, emphasizing the event’s significance. The ceremony will include local residents from South Delhi, MLAs, and other public representatives, highlighting the project’s community impact. Spanning 40 acres and constructed at a cost of Rs 1,161.18 crore, the Okhla WWTP is a joint venture between the Central government’s National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and the Delhi government, executed by DJB since 2019.

Funded primarily by the Central government (85%) under the Yamuna Action Plan-III, with the remaining contribution from the Delhi government, the project received financial assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), prompting the inclusion of Japanese dignitaries at the inauguration. The plant, which replaced four smaller sewage treatment facilities, incorporates advanced features like a power generation facility and produces A-class sludge post-treatment. Completed in April 2025 after delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and construction bans, the facility underwent a successful trial run.

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The Okhla WWTP is set to benefit approximately 40 lakh residents in areas including Civil Lines, Paharganj, Walled City, Green Park, Hauz Khas, Lajpat Nagar, New Friends Colony, Chittaranjan Park, Okhla, and Sarita Vihar. By enhancing wastewater management, the plant will contribute to cleaner water systems and support the rejuvenation of the Yamuna River, aligning with national and state environmental goals.

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