Karnal civic body to set up biogas plant at gaushala

In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘waste to wealth’ initiative, the Karnal Municipal Corporation (KMC) is going to install a cattle dung-based biogas plant at its gaushala and Nandigram in Phoosgarh. The initiative aims to effectively manage cattle dung while generating electricity to run gaushala and nandigram.

The KMC’s gaushala and nandigram currently house around 1,000 head of cattle, producing nearly six tonnes of dung daily. The proposed biogas plant will have a capacity of 150 cubic meters and will utilise the cattle waste to produce energy, ensuring a self-sustaining model for the facility.

Highlighting the benefits of the project, KMC Commissioner Dr Vaishali Sharma said, “To utilise the cattle dung within the gaushala and Nandigram, we are going to start a biogas plant, which will generate power. We will utilise this power to run the two facilities. CCTV cameras, machines and other equipment will also be run with the help of electricity generated under the project.”

She claimed that the step would reduce dependency on conventional power sources and enhance the efficiency of gaushala operations. The plant will contribute to environmental sustainability by promoting clean energy.

Ashok Kumar, Additional Municipal Commissioner, said the assessment process would be completed soon, after which the agency finalised for the project would install the plant.

Col PS Bindra (retd), an environmentalist and brand ambassador of Swachh Bharat Mission designated by the KMC, said, “Karnal has thousands of cows in various gaushalas, producing methane, which is 25 times more harmful than carbon dioxide. To address this, a pilot biogas project is being started and it will be commissioned in the next two months. The initiative will not only prevent methane pollution, but also generate electricity, reduce energy bills and provide free biogas for cooking. Once successful, more such plants will be established, significantly reducing pollution levels. This project aligns with our mission for a cleaner, greener Karnal, setting an example for other cities to follow.”

Residents of Phoosgarh and surrounding areas welcomed the move. They believe it would not only improve the management of gaushala and nandigram but also help in maintaining hygiene and reducing pollution caused by untreated cattle waste. “Such projects can serve as a model for waste management and renewable energy in urban areas. It will help in maintaining hygiene in the locality,” said Raj Kumar, an area resident.