It is a term related to the velocity and is a part of the design of a piping system. Additionally, a separate automated mechanism can be incorporated to maintain self-cleaning based on project-specific requirements, says GS Dikondawar, Sr. General Manager (Innovation & Technology), The Supreme Industries Ltd

As far as the pipes, tubes and fittings market is concerned, what kind of future awaits in the year 2021?
As this pandemic has underlined the need for sustainable infrastructure, the piping products for water management, sanitation, sewage treatment etc. will find more demand. Further to this, Government’s various ambitious projects and programs like 24×7 metered water supply, Har Ghar Nal Yojna, sanitation for all, housing for all by 2022 and smart city projects hopefully boost the growth of the market. Many new applications like fire protection systems, piped gas supply, rainwater harvesting are also expected to emerge.

Till date, the government is focusing on water, but looking at the need for better sanitation requirements, which has a major influence on the health, hygiene and the environment, we think the govt will focus on the sanitation sector. As plastic piping products are much superior to the age-old conventional products, they will be largely used. We at Supreme are committed to offering innovative and advance piping solutions at an affordable cost to grab the growing market demands.

Residential or industrial, which sector you believe will prove lucrative for your business in the coming year?
We expect both the segments to be lucrative for our business in the coming years, as we foresee growing trends post-pandemic situation. Demand for better and sustainable infrastructure, Make in India and new “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives of the Central government will be the key drivers for future growth.

What is your take on a self-cleaning pipe system? What kind of products and technology will be required to turn it into a reality?
There is no such product or piping system which can be called as self-cleaning, it is a term related to the velocity and is a part of the design of a piping system. Additionally, a separate automated mechanism can be incorporated to maintain self-cleaning based on project-specific requirements. However, plastic piping systems have glass-smooth inner surface and properties like excellent resistance to corrosion, chemicals, and abrasion which does not allow deposition or scaling. As a result, plastic piping facilitates the quick discharge of water without any blockage and hence can be considered as a self-cleaning system when compared with the conventional piping.

What kind of initiatives do you expect the government to kick off in the rural segment to ensure greater market penetration in the rural areas?

As India is expected to become a global manufacturing hub in the coming years, infrastructure in the water management, health and sanitation sectors will play an important role in this transformation. Today, the majority of the Indian population especially the population in rural areas is deprived of access to safe drinking water and sanitation. The ongoing pandemic has further worsened the situation and put forth the need for efficient piping systems for safe and clean water supply and safe disposal of wastewater making sustainable development the need of the time. Looking at this fact, along with the piped water supply schemes, the govt should also consider replacing the existing open gutter drainage system with an advanced plastic underground drainage system. This will be a long-term solution to the age-old problems to get rid of soil and water pollution, unhygienic and filthy atmosphere and its consequences on the health of the society.