Indore pioneers India’s first PPP-based green waste processing plant

K K Jha
Indore: Renowned for its cleanliness and trailblazing urban initiatives, Indore has taken another remarkable step towards environmental sustainability with the launch of India’s first Public-Private Partnership (PPP)-based green waste processing plant under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban. This groundbreaking project is set to revolutionize the city’s waste management system by converting green waste into valuable resources, reinforcing Indore’s commitment to innovation and ecological preservation.
According to a press statement issued by the Government of India on Tuesday, the state-of-the-art facility will not only address green waste disposal but also generate a sustainable revenue stream for the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC). The IMC is expected to earn approximately ₹3,000 per tonne in royalty for supplying processed wood and branches, further strengthening the city’s financial sustainability.
Situated on a sprawling 55,000-square-foot plot in Bicholi Hapsi, the facility is equipped with advanced technology to transform green waste into eco-friendly products such as wooden pellets, which offer a cleaner and energy-efficient alternative to coal. This strategic move aligns with global energy conservation efforts and aims to improve air quality by reducing coal dependency.
Indore generates approximately 30 tonnes of green waste daily, which can surge to 60-70 tonnes during the autumn season. The IMC has partnered with Astronomical Industries Private Limited to effectively manage this considerable volume, ensuring efficient waste processing. The green waste will undergo a meticulous drying process spanning three to four months, reducing its moisture content by a staggering 90%. Subsequently, specialized machinery will grind the dried material into fine sawdust, which will then be converted into useful products, the press release stated.
The IMC has played a pivotal role in this initiative by not only providing land for the facility but also taking responsibility for green waste transportation. This innovative project sets a compelling example for other cities aiming to adopt sustainable and environmentally responsible waste management strategies.
Indore’s forward-thinking approach continues to position the city as a leader in environmental stewardship, reinforcing its status as a role model for smart, sustainable urban development.