What is the purpose of disinfection or chlorination of sewerage effluent?

The purpose of disinfection or chlorination of sewage effluent primarily focuses on reducing the risk of disease transmission. This process is essential because wastewater can contain a variety of pathogens—including bacteria, viruses, and parasites—that pose significant health risks to humans and other living organisms. By employing disinfection methods such as chlorination, these harmful microorganisms are effectively neutralized or eliminated, making the treated water safer for reuse or discharge into the environment.

In summary, the critical role of disinfection in wastewater treatment is to safeguard public health by minimizing the potential for waterborne diseases, thereby ensuring that any effluent released back into water bodies does not contaminate the ecosystem or pose health risks to populations using that water for drinking, recreational activities, or agricultural purposes.