Forest, environment & ecology minister Ramalinga Reddy has directed the Bangalore Water Supply & Sewerage Board (BWSSB) and Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) to step up inspections across Bengaluru and ensure sewage treatment plants (STPs) comply with prescribed standards.At a meeting with senior officials of BWSSB and KSPCB, Reddy reviewed measures to prevent pollution of water bodies from untreated and partially treated sewage, besides plans to augment and establish STPs.Reddy directed BWSSB to ensure all STPs meet standards prescribed by the National Green Tribunal and KSPCB. STPs currently not meeting the norms have been given 30 days to comply.KSPCB has been asked to inspect private STPs at apartments, educational institutions, commercial complexes, hospitals and office buildings and ensure compliance with prescribed standards.Reddy also directed BWSSB to divert wastewater flowing into stormwater drains by completing missing stretches of sewer lines and ensure sewage is conveyed to STPs for treatment and safe disposal. Damaged manholes are to be repaired or reconstructed on priority.BWSSB and KSPCB have also been asked to jointly inspect industrial areas, including Peenya and Jigani, for liquid and solid waste management.Reddy directed BWSSB to complete STP projects within stipulated timelines. In areas where sewerage networks are available, but properties have not taken connections, officials have been asked to identify illegal connections, conduct field inspections and facilitate sewerage connections.BWSSB officials said four STPs are currently under construction. The board plans to complete seven STPs with a combined capacity of 51 MLD by December 2026, followed by 17 STPs with 413 MLD capacity by December 2027.A further nine STPs with 148 MLD capacity are scheduled for completion by December 2028, while nine projects with a combined capacity of 535 MLD are targeted for completion by December 2029.