The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) is planning to partner with a technical institute, such as IIT Delhi or Delhi Technical University (DTU), to conduct a detailed audit of its sewage treatment plants (STPs).

The study will also include an evaluation of DJB’s 10,000 km underground sewerage system, which is ageing and prone to damage.

"We are planning to involve IIT Delhi or DTU to assess the functioning of DJB’s STPs and sewerage network. Discussions are ongoing, and the agreements will be finalised soon," said a senior DJB official.

DJB, established under the Delhi Water Board Act, 1998, oversees water supply, sewerage, sewage disposal, and drainage within the National Capital Territory. However, many pipelines predate India’s independence, contributing to growing complaints regarding sewer overflows, blocked drains, breakages, and leaks.

In November, a report by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) revealed that 19 out of 37 STPs failed to meet standards, primarily concerning faecal coliform, a marker of raw sewage in the water. Some plants also did not meet standards for biochemical oxygen demand and suspended solids.

While DPCC conducts third-party audits of treatment standards, DJB plans the new study to gain a broader understanding of future issues.

In March 2023, a special assembly session was convened to address water and sewage issues, and a team of senior officials was formed to resolve complaints.