Indore to Launch India’s First Green Waste Processing Plant Under PPP Model

Indore: Indore is set to achieve another milestone in environmental sustainability with the launch of India’s first green waste processing plant developed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban. This pioneering initiative will revolutionize waste management by converting green waste into eco-friendly fuel, compost, and biodegradable products, reinforcing the city’s commitment to sustainable urban development.

The Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) has partnered with Astronomical Industries Private Limited to establish the plant on a 55,000-square-foot site in Bicholi Hapsi. The facility will process wood, branches, leaves, and flowers, transforming them into wooden pellets, a coal alternative widely used in industries. This not only promotes energy conservation but also generates revenue, with IMC earning ₹3,000 per tonne as royalty for supplying wood and branches.

Green waste from major institutions and municipal gardens will be directly collected and sent to the facility for processing. On average, Indore generates around 30 tons of green waste daily, which can rise to 60-70 tons during seasonal changes. Large tree branches will be redirected to the Green Waste Processing Plant at City Forest, ensuring optimal utilization.

The processing involves drying the green waste for three to four months, reducing moisture content by 90%, making it easier to break down into fine sawdust using advanced machinery. Once processed, the sawdust will be repurposed into eco-friendly fuel, biodegradable packaging, fertilizers, and disposable plates, providing a sustainable alternative to plastic and Styrofoam.

Under the PPP model, the IMC will provide land and green waste transportation, while private firms will handle the installation of sheds, electricity, water supply, and overall plant operations. Additional private enterprises have already set up Meghdoot and sub-grade plants in Sirpur, covering 10,000-15,000 square feet, to process garden waste through composting.

The wooden pellets produced at the facility will be supplied to industries like the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) as a sustainable fuel source, reducing reliance on coal and lowering emissions.

This landmark initiative aims to improve waste management, reduce pollution, and enhance Air Quality Index (AQI) by curbing the burning of waste. It also strengthens Indore’s vision under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban, contributing to Garbage-Free Cities and cleaner urban living.

By merging waste management with economic benefits, this project sets an innovative precedent for other cities to follow, reinforcing Indore’s reputation as India’s cleanest city and a leader in environmental sustainability.