VARANASI, Feb. 21 -- Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil directed the officials to ensure construction of the newly approved Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at the earliest so that the goal of controlling pollution in the Varuna and Ganga is achieved on time. Patil was in Varanasi on Thursday. He inspected the site at Bedouli village in Lohta, where a newly approved 60 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) has to be built in order to stop sewage from the Lohta area flowing into the Varuna through the Durga Nala. The ministry has approved construction of 60 MLD STP in Lohta under Namami Gange project. Patil also inspected the newly constructed 55 MLD STP in Bhagwanpur. Here, the functioning of the 50 MLD Main Pumping Station (MPS) built to stop the excess sewage flowing into the Ganga from the Assi drain was tested. The minister thoroughly reviewed the project's technical details and the current progress of construction. He categorically emphasised that all projects must be implemented in accordance with established standards. The diversion of the Assi drain and the Bhagwanpur STP were also reviewed, and the work was directed to be completed within the stipulated time. "The central and state governments are committed to making the Ganga-Varuna pollution-free. In this regard, the tender process for the construction of a 60 MLD (million litres per day) sewage treatment plant (STP) in Lohta at a cost of Rs.274.31 crore has been completed. With the construction of the STP, 13 drains flowing into the Varuna will also be tapped," said the minister.The minister also gave strict instructions to the officials to expedite the diversion work and complete it in a quality manner so that the sewage from every corner of Varanasi moves forward only after being treated....