The quality of sewage effluent dischargedfrom Howrah sewage treatment plant in respect of salinity, sodicity, bicarbonate toxicity and heavy metal hazards was assessed in order to utilize it for irrigation. Although raw sewage in both the seasons (monsoon and summer) was toxic in respect of salinity, sodicity, B.O.D., C.O.D. and heavy metals, its biological treatment decreased the toxicity hazards considerably, making it worth using for irrigation. Heavy metal contents of the soil treated with effluent were also studied.
Sewage effluent, sewage treatment plant, assessment
