Chandigarh is taking a big step toward cleaner energy and better waste handling. A new Compressed Biogas plant will soon rise at the Dadumajra dumping ground. This facility will process 200 tonnes of segregated organic municipal solid waste every single day. It will also handle 30 tonnes of cow dung daily.
Land Ceremony Marks Project Start
The land earmarking ceremony for this important project happened on Monday. Officials see this as a major move for scientific waste management in the city. It also marks progress in renewable energy generation for the region.
Governor Calls It a Proud Moment
UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria was the chief guest at the event. He called the transformation of the Dadumajra site a proud moment for Chandigarh. The Governor stated that cities must move away from old dumping methods. He stressed the need to adopt circular economy models where waste becomes a valuable resource.
"Scientific waste management and renewable energy solutions are crucial," Kataria said. "They protect our environment and public health." He believes this project will serve as a model for urban local bodies across India.
Project Details and Partnerships
The plant will operate in strict compliance with Central Pollution Control Board norms. Indian Oil Corporation Limited is a key partner in this initiative. Kataria congratulated IOCL for their involvement. He described the conversion of waste into vehicle-grade biogas as a forward-looking and sustainable approach.
The Governor also appreciated the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation. He noted their successful bioremediation of legacy waste, a process that began back in 2019. This effort has reclaimed nearly 28 acres of land. It has significantly reduced pollution, foul odors, and environmental hazards in the Dadumajra area.
Financial Model and Green Features
The CBG plant is being established under the Design, Build, Finance and Operate model. This involves no financial investment by the Municipal Corporation. The city will not bear operation or maintenance costs either.
The project will include a mandatory 33 percent green belt. Kataria directed Forest and Municipal Corporation officials to prepare a comprehensive plan for the reclaimed land. This plan should cover:
- Landscaping and plantation
- Green buffers
- Jogging tracks
- Children's play areas
- Open spaces
The Governor announced that a large-scale plantation drive will launch from the site in July 2026.
Mayor Highlights Win-Win Solution
Chandigarh Mayor Harpreet Kaur Babla shared her thoughts on the project. "The CBG plant offers a win-win solution," she said. "It tackles waste management challenges while producing clean energy."
The Rs 125-crore project promises long-term environmental and public health benefits. These include reduced methane emissions and lower dependence on fossil fuels. The plant represents a practical shift toward sustainable urban development.
