The Carcar Water District has officially presented a major infrastructure initiative, unveiling a P358.11 million expansion of its water supply system alongside the construction of two septage treatment plants (STPs). This ambitious project aims to address the escalating water and sanitation needs in Carcar City, as detailed in their Environmental Performance Report and Management Plan (EPRMP).
Project Overview and Population Impact
According to the EPRMP, the proposed expansion includes a Level III water supply project designed to serve an estimated 140,308 residents. The report forecasts that household water demand will reach between 14.03 million and 18.24 million liters per day, highlighting the urgency of this upgrade to ensure reliable access for the growing community.
Key Infrastructure Components
The expansion involves several critical elements to enhance water sourcing and distribution. Two septage treatment plants will be constructed: STP I in Barangay Tuyom and STP II in Barangay Napo, with each facility estimated to cost P110 million. Additionally, pumping stations will be installed at Ylaya Bolinawan, Talamban Napo, and Luan-luan Poblacion 1 to expand water sources and manage groundwater extraction more effectively.
To support storage and distribution, elevated storage tanks will be built in Mahayahay Guadalupe and Dandan Poblacion 1. This will be complemented by the installation of approximately 100 kilometers of new transmission and distribution pipelines, ensuring a robust and efficient network.
Technological Advancements and Environmental Considerations
The EPRMP specifies that the pumping stations will utilize high-efficiency, variable-speed submersible pumps equipped with backup generators to maintain operations during power outages. Water storage tanks will be constructed from glass-fused-to-steel bolted tanks, known for their durability and resistance to corrosion.
For the septage treatment plants, modern technologies such as Sequencing Batch Reactor, Activated Sludge Process, and Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor are being considered. These advanced systems are designed to ensure thorough and effective wastewater treatment, aligning with environmental standards and promoting public health.
This comprehensive project underscores the Carcar Water District's commitment to improving infrastructure and sustainability in the region, with construction set to begin following regulatory approvals.
