Indore is poised to make history as the first city in India to implement a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model-based green waste processing plant under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban. This groundbreaking initiative aims to transform waste management by converting green waste into valuable, eco-friendly resources, setting a precedent for sustainable urban development.
Situated on a 55,000-square-foot plot in Bicholi Hapsi, the plant will process green waste such as wood, branches, leaves, and flowers. The facility will not only promote environmental conservation but also generate revenue for the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC), which will earn approximately Rs 3,000 per tonne in royalty for supplying wood and branches. The recycled waste will be converted into wooden pellets, offering a sustainable alternative to coal and aiding energy conservation efforts.
Indore produces around 30 tons of green waste daily, a figure that can rise to 60-70 tons during peak seasons like autumn. Under this initiative, large tree branches will be redirected to the Green Waste Processing Plant at City Forest, where they will be repurposed into useful products. Additionally, green waste from major institutions will be collected and processed at the facility under a structured fee system.
Astronomical Industries Private Limited has partnered with the IMC to transform this waste into sawdust. The sawdust will undergo a drying process spanning 3-4 months, reducing its moisture content by 90%. Once dried, the material will be processed into fine dust particles using advanced machinery, making it a versatile resource for various industries.
The sawdust will be utilized for multiple eco-friendly applications, including serving as a cleaner alternative to traditional fuel sources, manufacturing durable packing materials to replace plastic, enhancing furniture production, and creating biodegradable disposable plates for the food industry. Additionally, it will be used in fertilizer production to enrich soil and support sustainable farming practices.
In this collaboration, the IMC will provide land and handle waste transportation, while Astronomical Industries will oversee the installation, operation, and maintenance of the plant. Other private companies have also played a role in waste management efforts by establishing plants like Meghdoot and sub-grade facilities for processing garden waste, as well as composting initiatives in municipal gardens.
This initiative is expected to significantly improve waste management practices, reduce pollution, and enhance air quality by offering a sustainable alternative to coal.
