Delhi begins to install 3 biogas plants for dairy sector

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is setting up biogas plants in key dairy colonies of the national capital to scientifically manage cattle dung and prevent it from entering the drainage system. The objective is to curb pollution in the Yamuna River.

The first of these plants, located at Nangli Dairy, is set to become operational in August. Similar biogas facilities are under development in Goyla and Ghoga dairies. Each plant is being bult with an estimated cost of Rs 16 crore. Each will be capable of processing up to 200 metric tonnes of cattle waste daily.

Satya Sharma, Chairman of the MCD Standing Committee, stated that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to manage organic waste more effectively, especially in dairy clusters that have long contributed to environmental degradation.

Sharma also noted that the move comes after Chief Minister Rekha Gupta instructed the MCD to take immediate and concrete measures to reduce the volume of untreated waste reaching the Yamuna. This directive has accelerated the implementation of related projects.

According to official data, over 1,500 dairies operate in the Nangli and Goyla regions, generating vast quantities of cattle dung. Currently, much of this waste flows untreated through minor drains into the Najafgarh Drain, which ultimately feeds into the Yamuna. The upcoming biogas plants aim to intercept this waste stream, converting it into biogas and organic manure, thereby addressing a key source of river pollution.

While the Nangli plant will start functioning in August, the projects at Goyla and Ghoga are expected to be completed by next year. Sharma emphasized that officials have been instructed to ensure timely execution without any delays.

Beyond reducing pollution, the initiative is also expected to improve local hygiene, eliminate foul odors, and promote the use of clean energy. The biogas produced will be upgraded into Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), helping reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Meanwhile, the organic manure byproduct will be utilized in MCD’s horticulture operations.

Recently, a study by Nomura Research has concluded that construction of biogas plants can help reduce Delhi’s winter pollution by about 30%. CM Rekha Gupta said last month that her government is striving to tackle pollution in the Yamuna by setting up biogas plants near the capital’s dairy clusters. Additionally, the Delhi Government has also granted the MCD Commissioner more powers to oversee contracts related with municipal solid waste management.