SAIL Bokaro Steel Plant Reduces Water Consumption by 27%, Net Water Cost Down Nearly 55%

New Delhi/Bokaro: SAIL’s Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL) has achieved a major milestone in sustainable operations, recording a sharp reduction in water consumption and net water cost over the past year through a series of targeted water management initiatives.

According to official data, BSL’s total water consumption declined from 99.86 lakh cubic metres in December 2024 to 72.81 lakh cubic metres in December 2025, representing a significant 27 per cent reduction in monthly water drawal. At the same time, the plant registered a nearly 55 per cent fall in net water cost, despite an upward revision in water tariffs during the period.

The transformation has been driven by systematic efforts of the plant’s Water Management Department (WMD) under the guidance of Director Incharge Shri Priya Ranjan. Key measures included progressive upgrades in the Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) system to improve interception, treatment and reuse of effluent, along with strengthened internal recycling to reduce dependence on fresh water sources.

Extensive replacement and rehabilitation of ageing pipelines across major water tunnels and distribution networks helped curb chronic leakages and unaccounted losses. The department also carried out large-scale de-siltation and sludge removal in sludge compartments, clarifiers and reservoirs, restoring hydraulic efficiency and improving overall system performance.

In addition, tighter process control of pH levels, total suspended solids and sludge evacuation, combined with continuous monitoring, improved metering practices and stronger operational discipline across utilities, ensured consistent treated water quality for reuse.

Beyond delivering substantial financial savings, the initiatives have significantly strengthened BSL’s compliance with environmental regulations and reinforced its sustainability commitments, particularly in advancing zero liquid discharge practices and lowering its dependence on natural freshwater resources.