Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs) play a critical role in ensuring sanitation safety and environmental protection. In Tamil Nadu, there are currently 51 planned FSTPs, of which 37 are operational. Once these facilities are commissioned, their efficient operation relies heavily on adherence to Operation and Maintenance (O&M) protocols by plant operators and maintenance staff.

On 12 June 2024, IIHS TNUSSP conducted a regional-level orientation in Tenkasi Municipality (Tirunelveli) about O&M sustenance in FSTPs. The training and exposure visits were specifically designed to provide participants with comprehensive knowledge about safety protocols, regulatory requirements, and best practices for O&M in FSTPs. TNUSSP, being the Technical Support Unit (TSU) to the government of Tamil Nadu (GoTN), prepared the content and led the training.

The training highlighted several significant challenges in the operation and maintenance of Treatment Facilities (TF) in Tamil Nadu. Key issues included staff shortages and a lack of necessary skills among available personnel, leading to inefficiencies in not testing and screening incoming loads, delays in sludge removal, and infrastructure maintenance problems. Additionally, delays in contractor payments and a general lack of knowledge of occupational health and safety affect the performance of TF.

The training successfully provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of FSTP O&M and a solid grasp of safety protocols and regulatory compliance standards. The hands-on training and practical demonstrations in troubleshooting and performing maintenance tasks helped enhance participants’ skills.

This one-day event was attended by 50 participants from 11 municipalities with operational FSTPs, including ULB representatives and the Regional PIU team, Sanitary Supervisor, Animator Supervisor, Animators, and FSTP Operators.

During the orientation, TNUSSP TSU released the FSTP Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Dossier, and it was received by the chairpersons of this event: the Commissioner, Sanitary Officer, and Sanitary Inspector of Tenkasi Municipality.