Waste to Energy Plants Offer Relief from Waste Crisis in Uttarakhand

Dehradun: As urban populations in Uttarakhand continue to grow, so does the volume of waste, posing a significant challenge for waste disposal. However, two cities in the state, Rudrapur and Mussoorie, have taken a pioneering step by utilizing waste-to-energy technology to convert waste into electricity and compost, thus reducing the strain on landfill sites.

“Waste to Energy” Plants in Rudrapur and Mussoorie

Under the “Waste to Energy” policy, the municipal corporations of Rudrapur and Mussoorie have launched initiatives to convert waste into electricity. In Rudrapur, this policy has led to the disposal of large piles of accumulated waste that had been untreated for years.

Mussoorie’s Waste-to-Energy Plant

Mussoorie Municipal Corporation initiated its waste-to-energy plant in May 2024, designed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The plant can process up to eight tons of waste daily, generating biogas and producing organic compost. This scientific approach to waste management is particularly beneficial for tourist destinations like Mussoorie, where waste accumulation can mar the scenic beauty and environmental health.

Rudrapur’s Plant Produces 6 kW of Electricity Daily

With 40 wards, Rudrapur generates around 105-118 tons of waste daily. Previously, most of this waste was dumped untreated at a landfill site. In November 2022, the Rudrapur Municipal Corporation, also adopting the PPP model, began constructing an incineration plant that now processes approximately 30 tons of waste daily, producing six kilowatts of electricity. Additionally, the plant produces organic compost, contributing to sustainable waste management in the city.

These waste-to-energy initiatives in Rudrapur and Mussoorie represent a progressive approach to tackling the waste crisis in Uttarakhand. By converting waste into useful resources, these cities are setting an example for sustainable urban development and cleaner living environments.