Novel technology enhances access to treated wastewater for irrigation amongst farmers in Kanpur, India
Folake Monsurat Babalola, an alumna of IHE Delft, shares her experience conducting research for her MSc thesis in Kanpur, India. Her research primarily focused on wastewater safety planning, which was an integral part of the project. During her two-month stay on-site, she collected data for her case study.
India grapples with meeting high water demands for agricultural, industrial and domestic use. In the region of Uttar Pradesh, specifically in the industrial city of Kanpur, farmers resort to reusing inadequately treated municipal wastewater for crop irrigation. This practice has resulted in severe pollution, posing significant health risks to the farmers.
In response to the critical need for safe and clean water, as well as the requirement for more sustainable irrigation solutions, India and the European Union jointly launched the Pavitra Ganga project in 2019. The project aims to treat municipal wastewater and eliminate organic pollutants and industrial chemicals, such as cadmium and chromium, which pollute Indian waterways, particularly the Ganges River.
As part of her thesis research on wastewater and sanitation in the Kanpur area, Folake Monsurat Babalola participated in the Pavitra Ganga project. She collected data, studied reports on wastewater treatment and examined the effects of the novel technology on occupational health risks associated with wastewater management and reuse.
"Our research aims to raise awareness so that people can continue to utilize water. The publication serves as a means to increase public awareness,"
She added that gathering data could be challenging as some staff members at the wastewater treatment plant were reluctant to share information. With the help of an interpreter, she engaged with farmers who shared their problems and information about their daily water usage practices.
Working under tight time pressure Monsurat Babalola balanced her research and lab work at the treatment plant to find solutions that catered to the farmers' needs. She encouraged the farmers to maintaining contact with non-governmental organizations, which can serve as a vital link between the farmers and authorities.
Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Sanitation and Public Health at IHE Delft, Monsurat Babalola aims to continue her work in a similar vein with in a Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) that focuses on Uganda and Bangladesh. She aims to make a positive impact in the field.