The Raw sewage water or treated water from STP contain 0-1.5 PPM of DO. thus low DO concentrations in irrigation water can affect crop growth and yield. Plant roots require oxygen to function properly, and low DO levels in irrigation water can reduce the oxygen supply to the roots, leading to reduced crop growth and yield. Additionally, low DO levels in irrigation water can promote the growth of anaerobic bacteria, which can negatively impact soil health and lead to nutrient loss. The stress levels caused by low DO levels in water will increase more demand for Pesticides and Fertilizers.

The sewage water contains a lot of nitrogen and phosphorous. Such wastewater exerts most of the nutrient load and could be used as irrigation water to certain crops, trees and plants that may lead to increase in agricultural produce and plantation. It has a potential to supply (organic) carbon nutrients (NPK) and (inorganic) micro nutrients to support crop/plant growth. Use of sewage water for irrigation not only improves the growth rate of plants but also reduces the cost of chemical fertilizers. However, sewage should be treated prior to its reuse for agriculture in order to reduce the risks (heavy metals) of harmful effects on human and animal health.

The idea to use sewage water in agriculture not just sounds interesting but is also backed by scientific findings showing the high content of some of the nutrients in sewage water. The problem lies in two major aspects. the first is sewage water also contains a lot of dissolved inorganic particles as well as toxins. This could have a detrimental effect on crop growth. Also, as mentioned by one of the experts the dissolved oxygen in untreated sewage water is less than the requirement. That being said, the use of sewage water after primary treatment and microbial inoculation (for decomposing of certain wastes) can definitely be considered.