Social Pharmacy Field Visit at Bangur Sewage Treatment Plant

Introduction Dr. Sudhir Chandra Sur Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology organised a Social Pharmacy Field Visit at Bangur Sewage Treatment Plant on 13^th August 2026 (Thursday) for the D.Pharm Part I students. The objective of the visit was to provide students with practical knowledge regarding sewage collection, treatment, purification and safe disposal, and to help them understand the importance of sanitation and environmental health in public health.  Ms. Sreya Das and Mr. Rupam Roy, Assistant Professor, DSIPST, accompanied the students and helped them understand the significance of sewage treatment from the perspective of  Social Pharmacy.   Objectives of the Visit The main objectives of the field visit were:

1. To provide students with practical exposure to sewage treatment processes.
2. To understand the different stages involved in sewage treatment.
3. To learn about the importance of proper sewage disposal in preventing environmental pollution.
4. To understand the relationship between sanitation, environmental hygiene and public health.
5. To complement the theoretical concepts taught under the Social Pharmacy curriculum.

  Description of the Visit During the visit, the D.Pharm students were introduced to the functioning of the Bangur Sewage Treatment Plant. The students observed how sewage generated from residential and other sources is collected and subjected to various treatment processes before the treated water is discharged or reused as permitted. The students were explained the importance of different stages of sewage treatment, including the removal of large solid materials, sedimentation of suspended particles and biological treatment of organic matter. The visit helped the students understand how untreated sewage can contaminate water sources and contribute to the spread of communicable diseases. The students also gained an understanding of the importance of maintaining proper sanitation and sewage management for protecting community health and the environment.     Observations During the visit, the plant officials explained the step-by-step treatment process:

• Screening & Grit Removal: Large solids and grit are removed to protect machinery.
• Primary Sedimentation: Heavy particles settle down as sludge.
• Biological Treatment / Aeration: Microorganisms break down organic matter.
• Secondary Sedimentation: Further settling of biological sludge.
• Tertiary Treatment & Disinfection: Chlorination/UV is done before releasing treated water.

We also observed sludge handling, odor control systems, and laboratory testing for BOD, COD, and coliform count. The plant treats [approx MLD] million liters per day and serves parts of South Kolkata.     Learning Outcomes The field visit provided the students with valuable practical knowledge about:  

• Sewage collection and treatment.
• Primary and secondary treatment processes.
• Removal of solid and suspended impurities.
• Biological treatment of sewage.
• Safe management and disposal of treated wastewater.
• The role of sewage treatment in preventing water pollution.
• The importance of sanitation in disease prevention and public health.

  Conclusion The Social Pharmacy Field Visit to Bangur Sewage Treatment Plant was an informative and educational experience for the D.Pharm students. It enabled them to connect their classroom learning with real-world sewage management practices. The visit also highlighted the crucial role of proper sanitation and wastewater treatment in maintaining a healthy community and protecting the environment.   The field visit successfully fulfilled its objective of providing students with practical exposure to sewage treatment and its significance in Social Pharmacy and public health.