The Central Pollution Control Board has revised effluent discharge standards for key industries. Here is a complete breakdown of the new limits, which sectors are most affected, and what upgrades are required.
CPCB Revised Effluent Standards 2024
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has notified revised effluent discharge standards with stricter limits for BOD, COD, TSS, heavy metals and colour. These revisions align with WHO and EU standards and India's SDG-6 targets.
Key Changes in Revised Standards
- BOD: New limit below 20 mg/L (previously below 30 mg/L)
- COD: New limit below 150 mg/L (previously below 250 mg/L)
- Total Nitrogen: New parameter — below 10 mg/L for all industries
- Total Phosphorus: Below 5 mg/L (new parameter)
- Colour: Hazen units below 150
Most Impacted Sectors
- Textile and Dyeing: ZLD mandatory for units above 100 KLD in water-scarce areas
- Pharmaceuticals API: Stricter COD below 90 mg/L
- Tanneries: Chromium below 0.05 mg/L (halved from previous)
- Distilleries: BOD below 30 mg/L accelerates DSTI adoption
Required Upgrades for Compliance
- Addition of tertiary filtration sand and activated carbon
- MBBR or MBR retrofit for enhanced BOD and COD removal
- Nitrification stage for Total Nitrogen compliance
- RO system for TDS reduction and ZLD readiness
- Online CEQMS installation for continuous monitoring