In a major step toward tackling Punjab’s water pollution, scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, have developed an AI-enabled, solar-powered filtration system that can eliminate up to 99 per cent of hazardous chemicals from industrial wastewater.

This innovation arrives as Punjab battles the discharge of over 764 million litres of untreated sewage into the Sutlej daily, mainly through the heavily polluted Buddha Nullah in Ludhiana. The filtration targets harmful industrial dyes like Congo Red and Methylene Blue, often used in textiles and pharmaceuticals. These dyes not only discolour water but are also linked to severe health issues, including skin and respiratory conditions.

The new system features a biodegradable 3D-printed scaffold made from polylactic acid and coated with bismuth ferrite—a solar-activated catalyst. Unlike conventional electrochemical or ozone-based treatments, this method is energy-efficient, cost-effective, eco-friendly, and reusable. It relies on Piezo-Photocatalysis, combining solar power and gentle vibrations to activate the catalyst, ensuring functionality even in inconsistent weather.

In lab tests, the system removed 98.9 per cent of Congo Red and 74.3 per cent of Methylene Blue, outperforming many advanced treatment methods. Field trials in Jaipur, where over 100 factories release effluents, also showed promising results.

To enhance precision and predict system performance in varying conditions, researchers integrated Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), achieving 99 per cent prediction accuracy. INST is working with Chandigarh University to improve the system’s sustainability under real-world conditions.

Funded by the Department of Science and Technology and published in Nano Energy, this scalable solution could revolutionise wastewater treatment in rural and peri-urban areas. “If adopted by the Punjab government, this system could significantly clean Buddha Nullah and reduce toxic discharge into the Sutlej,” said Dr Aviru Basu, the lead researcher.