Of the 2,090 textile processing units identified in Erode, Namakkal, Salem and Karur districts, 1,007 units have given their consent to join the integrated textile processing park that would have a common effluent treatment plant (CETP) facility set up at a cost of Rs 700 crores. Discharge of untreated industrial effluents into the Cauvery, Bhavani and Amarvati rivers has long been a problem. The CETPs would be set up in the four districts to prevent further pollution. The objective was to establish integrated textile clusters and bring in units under one roof in their respective areas so that effluents can be treated in CETPs.

The proposed cost for establishing CETPs along with power generation units have been worked out at Rs 1,118 crores for the Erode (Rs 784 crores) and Namakkal clusters (Rs 334 crores). The proposal is yet to be prepared for Salem and Karur clusters.

Once the feasibility report is submitted, the textile dyeing clusters should establish a special purpose vehicle, purchase land and execute the shareholders agreement. Later a detailed project report would be prepared with details including effluent sampling and analysis and technology options for CETPs. Other stages include an environmental impact assessment, financial closure and finally implementing the projects, operations and maintenance.