Western Railway (WR) Ahmedabad’s Kankaria Coaching Depot has emerged as a ‘water neutral’ Railway depot saving about 5.84 crore litres of water per annum, by efficient water management.
The depot saves nearly 1.60 lakh litres of water every day through advanced treatment and re-use systems translating into an annual conservation of about 5.84 crore litres of water.
Kankaria depot has successfully implemented a modern wastewater treatment system based on phytoremediation, a natural process where plants are used to purify water. This eco-friendly technology is used to treat wastewater generated from routine activities such as coach washing and maintenance. Instead of being discharged, the water is cleaned and re-used, significantly reducing dependence on freshwater sources.
The system follows a multi-stage process, combining natural and technical methods to ensure effective purification. Using wetland-based treatment, plants play a crucial role in absorbing impurities and improving water quality. In the final stages, the treated water undergoes carbon and sand filtration along with UV disinfection, making it safe for re-use in operational activities.
This initiative supports environmental conservation besides reducing water consumption costs. The project aligns with the standards set by environmental authorities, ensuring that sustainability and compliance go hand in hand.
