ABSTRACT

Water is a vital, irreplaceable resource that must be managed carefully, especially in regions with potential shortages. In the construction industry, water pollution from materials, processes, and contaminants in wastewater is a significant issue. Various sources on tunneling construction sites contribute to this, including washing water, seepage water from pits, tunnel water, and water used in concrete work or slurry circuits. These waters often contain pollutants like solids, hydrocarbons, and heavy metals. Wastewater treatment plants, specifically designed for such environments, can remove or reduce these contaminants. Treated water can either be reused on-site or discharged into sewers or rivers, following discharge requirements. With global water resources dwindling, stricter discharge limits, and the growing emphasis on sustainability, wastewater treatment on tunneling sites is becoming indispensable. This paper outlines how these systems are designed, their environmental and financial benefits, and key considerations for implementation on construction sites.