RFPs for STP Operators: Why your RWA needs a robust STP operator RFP
Navigating the Waters with KSPCB Compliance and Citizen Health
If you would rather download our free RFP template, click here
For many apartment communities in Bengaluru, Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) are a silent backbone protecting groundwater, enabling reuse, and keeping neighbourhoods clean. Yet, STP operations are often misunderstood as a simple task that any technician can handle. In reality, they are engineered biological ecosystems that require experienced hands and regulatory discipline.
This article is for Management Committee (MC) members of apartment RWAs with capacity of 100 KLD+ STPs, who want trouble-free operations, reliable water reuse, and full adherence to Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) norms. If your STP has ever caused odour issues, colour changes in treated water, failed tests, or received warning notices then a properly structured RFP (Request for Proposal) is the first step to improvement.
Why a Proper STP Operator RFP Matters
An RFP is not just a hiring announcement. It is a framework of accountability clearly outlining the STP’s needs, performance expectations, and safety obligations. A robust RFP ensures that only qualified Operations & Management vendors participate in the bidding process, protecting the RWA from operational disruptions or legal headaches.
Especially in Bengaluru, where treated water can be treated as the city's third source of water, the quality is monitored closely, a well crafted RFP is what stands between a compliant, green community and costly environmental penalties.
What Your RFP Should Clearly State
To help bidders propose confidently, your RFP must cover the technical, operational, and compliance details of your STP.
Below are the essential sections every RWA should include. Think of them as the building blocks for smooth operations:
Scope of Work
This is the heartbeat of the RFP. It must explain what the operator is responsible for daily plant functioning. The following items must be mandatorily included in this part:
- 24/7 plant monitoring & control
- Process optimization
- Preventive & breakdown maintenance of pumps, blowers, panels, flow meters
- Lab testing & compliance reporting
- Effluent standards adherence (as per KSPCB norms)
- Sludge drying & disposal records
- Chemical supply and dosing optimization
- Real time monitoring dashboards like AquaSTP
Plant Details
The vendor and the client must know what technology is in use—SBR, MBBR, ASP, or MBR—and the treatment capacity. Clear outlet quality benchmarks help vendors commit to guaranteed performance. A small list that must be noted in this part of the RFP:
- Technology used: SBR / MBBR / ASP / MBR
- STP capacity (KLD/MLD)
- Inlet characteristics
- Guaranteed outlet water standards
- Utility provisions (DG backup, AMC status, borewell reuse plan)
Eligibility Requirements
Experience counts. Your RFP should ask for proof of similar STP operations, certified manpower, and financial strength. This protects your community from inexperienced vendors who may underquote and fail later. Here is the suggestive list to make note:|
- Min. 3–5 years experience with similar sized STPs
- Skilled manpower: operator + helper + visiting engineer + chemist
- Past compliance certificates with NGT / KSPCB / SPCB / CPCB
- Valid GST, Pollution Control Board certification
Commercial Terms
A well run STP is a 365 day commitment. Ensure the agreement consists the following information for peace of mind
- Contract period: 3 to 5 years recommended
- Penalty clause for non compliance of effluent norms
- Earnest Money Deposit / Performance Bank Guarantee
Optional Enhancements to Include
RWAs today are upgrading systems to ensure sustainability and transparency. You may optionally ask vendors to quote separately for:
- Digital monitoring systems
- Odour control upgrades
- Reuse water treatment for flushing or landscaping
- AMC for electromechanical components
These additions help apartment communities progress toward Zero Liquid Discharge goals.
Who to Send Your RFP To
- Greentivity Enviro Solutions - Recommended for MC-focused service
- VA Tech Wabag - Recommended for large STPs
- KSPCB - certified local service firms
You can also float the RFP on your community group for additional visibility.
Greentivity Enviro Solutions Your Trusted Partner for Compliant STP Operations
At Greentivity, we go beyond routine O&M. Our focus is compliance led operations, cutting down chemical wastage, ensuring smooth motors, and delivering clear & odour free water that your community can trust for reuse. With AquaSTP our digital performance partner, you always know how your plant is performing.
We help MCs make informed decisions and stay audit ready every single day.
