In a groundbreaking initiative, the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and the Indian Railways, in collaboration with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), have ushered in a ‘Watershed’ moment for Mumbai’s railway stations. With a joint effort to ensure clean drinking water at key stations, the first phase has seen the deployment of 10 advanced water purification units across vital locations.
Operationalized at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, Dadar, and Dockyard Road Stations, these units mark a significant stride towards providing safe and eco-friendly drinking water to the public. Spearheading this initiative is Osmotech Membranes Pvt. Ltd., Rajkot, the technology licensee for BARC, responsible for installing and commissioning these state-of-the-art water purification units.
The technology behind these units is powered by BARC’s cutting-edge #UltraFiltration membrane, configured for specialized use. One of the key advantages is the elimination of chemical additives, ensuring an environmentally friendly and efficient water purification process. Capable of removing microorganisms, suspended solids, colloids, and high-molecular-weight organics, the purified water meets the standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS 10500). The modular design enables dispensing up to 1000 liters of safe drinking water per hour, with over 95% feed recovery and the retention of essential minerals.
Shri Vivek Bhasin, Director of BARC, expressed pride in the robust desalination and water purification technologies developed by BARC, available for transfer to industries. He emphasized the long lifespan and minimal maintenance of these units, making them suitable for large-scale deployment in public spaces.
Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of DAE and Chairman of AEC, highlighted DAE’s commitment to providing purified water in rural, remote, and strategic locations, aligning with India’s Jal Jeevan Mission. He urged entrepreneurs to adopt BARC-developed technologies for wider commercial deployment, particularly in the #PlatinumJubilee Year of Atomic Energy in India.
This collaboration sets a significant precedent for future initiatives that prioritize public health and environmental sustainability. By addressing a fundamental need like access to clean drinking water, DAE, BARC, and the Indian Railways have exemplified how innovation and collaboration can create positive ripples for the well-being of communities and the environment alike.