Lucknow to get new bio-CNG project

Lucknow is set to get its first bio-CNG and bio-fertiliser plant near Amausi, a project that aims to convert daily waste into clean fuel and organic manure. Once operational, the facility is expected to produce nearly 10 tonnes of eco-friendly bio-CNG and fertiliser every day, using kitchen scraps, cow dung and crop residues as raw material.

The plant, to be developed at an estimated cost of Rs 80 crore, is awaiting the governor’s approval before construction can formally begin. LMC will not be investing any capital in the bio-CNG project.

The bio-CNG project will be executed by JBM Enviro Bio-Energy Lucknow under a public-private partnership model on a 7.5-acre plot leased by the LMC for 20 years. The Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) will organise the groundbreaking ceremony soon after the final nod is received.

Municipal commissioner Gaurav Kumar has stated that the bio-CNG plant represents an important shift in the city’s waste management approach by transforming daily waste into valuable resources while easing pressure on landfills. The project draws inspiration from similar successful facilities in Indore and Chandigarh.

A major portion of the plant’s feedstock—around 150 tonnes of cow dung daily—will be sourced from Kanha Gaushala and other cattle shelters. The remaining input will come from household waste, vegetable markets and agricultural residues collected from farmers. To operate at full capacity, the plant will require approximately 200 tonnes of waste each day.

According to reports, the initiative will help resolve long-standing challenges related to cow dung disposal. The bio-CNG generated at the facility will be priced around 5% lower than prevailing market rates, making it a cost-effective green fuel option. The leftover slurry from the biogas process will be converted into organic fertiliser.

The bio-CNG project will support cleaner public transport, improve sanitation and create local employment opportunities. The LMC also anticipates earning about Rs 1.5 crore annually from the initiative.

Previously, Gurugram based EverEnviro Resource Management Pvt Ltd agreed to develop a Bio-CNG plant in Lucknow to produce 12 metric tons of biogas daily. Last April, state’s Urban Development and Energy Minister AK Sharma too held that Lucknow will soon see the construction of a waste-to-energy plant and a solar power facility to improve scientific waste disposal and promote sustainable urban development.