In Maharashtra, the management of bio-medical waste (BMW) from healthcare facilities (HCFs) follows stringent guidelines set forth by the Central Government under the Bio-medical Waste Management Rules, 2016. Recently, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), in its 183rd Board meeting, introduced exemptions concerning the installation of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) in HCFs based on bed capacity. This notification was published on July 2, 2024.
Healthcare facilities with up to 50 beds that discharge sewage into public sewers leading to terminal STPs are now granted combined consent and BMW authorization. They must adhere to specific effluent standards for parameters like pH, suspended solids, oil and grease, and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD). Larger facilities with 51 or more beds must install STPs, regardless of sewerage connections, meeting stricter effluent standards.
Furthermore, all HCFs, regardless of size, are mandated to incorporate disinfection facilities as per Schedule II of the Rules, ensuring responsible disposal or reuse of effluents. These measures aim to enhance environmental sustainability and public health through effective waste management practices in healthcare settings.
