Indore to Establish India’s First Green Waste Processing Plant Under PPP Model; IMC to Earn ₹3,000 per Tonne

Indore is taking a significant step towards sustainable waste management with the establishment of India’s first green waste processing plant under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This initiative, developed under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban, underscores the city’s commitment to environmental conservation and innovation in waste recycling.

Located on 55,000 square feet of land in Bicholi Hapsi, the facility is designed to recycle green waste efficiently, transforming discarded wood and branches into wooden pellets—a sustainable alternative to coal. This development marks a milestone in urban waste management, reinforcing Indore’s reputation as a leader in cleanliness and sustainability initiatives.

Financial Viability and Green Resource Generation

A key aspect of this initiative is its financial sustainability. The Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) will receive a royalty of ₹3,000 (US$ 34.66) per tonne of waste supplied to the plant, ensuring a steady revenue stream while addressing environmental concerns.

Indore generates around 30 tonnes of green waste daily, which surges to 60-70 tonnes in autumn due to seasonal shedding. Institutional waste collection is also being integrated into the system, expanding the plant’s impact.

Innovative Waste Processing Techniques

The plant, which will be operated by Astronomical Industries Private Limited, employs a unique drying process that spans 3 to 4 months, reducing moisture content by 90%. This process converts waste into fine sawdust, which can be repurposed into multiple eco-friendly products, such as:

• Biodegradable packaging
• Furniture manufacturing
• Fertilisers
• Disposable plates (reducing plastic consumption)

Additionally, municipal gardens will utilise composting pits to process garden waste, further enhancing the city’s waste management efficiency.

A Step Towards Cleaner Energy and Air Quality Improvement

One of the standout features of the plant is the production of wooden pellets, which will be supplied to the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) and other industries as a clean energy source. By replacing conventional fuels with biomass-based alternatives, the initiative is expected to contribute to better air quality and help control the Air Quality Index (AQI).

This aligns with the broader Garbage-Free Cities vision under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban, promoting environmental sustainability while also ensuring additional revenue generation for municipal authorities.

Conclusion: A Model for Other Cities

Indore’s green waste processing plant is a trailblazing effort in India’s urban waste management landscape. Its success could serve as a blueprint for other cities looking to adopt similar eco-friendly waste disposal and recycling mechanisms. By combining sustainability with financial viability, the initiative reflects how public-private collaboration can drive innovative environmental solutions.

With its forward-thinking approach, Indore continues to lead the way in clean energy adoption, waste reduction, and circular economy practices, reinforcing its status as one of India’s most environmentally conscious cities.

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