New biogas units to be set-up in Prayagraj

The Uttar Pradesh government has identified Prayagraj as a key hub for developing cow-based industries, aiming to link cattle conservation with rural employment and economic growth. As part of this initiative, the state plans to install biogas plants in more than 300 gaushalas or cow shelters across Uttar Pradesh.

In Prayagraj district, three large gaushalas have been selected for the installation of biogas units. These facilities are located in Devari (Manda), Umariya Badal (Holagarh), and Dighlo (Meja). The project, estimated to cost over ₹95 lakh, has been proposed to the Gram Panchayat department, with completion targeted by December.

Earlier in March this year, Gau Seva Ayog Chairman Shyam Bihari Gupta had declared that the government plans to set up biogas plants in more than 300 cow shelters across the state, aiming to integrate livestock protection with clean energy generation and rural employment.

The selected shelters in Prayagraj house over 1,600 cattle, ensuring a steady supply of raw materials such as cow dung and urine for biogas production. Each site will be equipped with a biogas plant of 45 cubic meters capacity. The broader objective of the initiative is to integrate cattle conservation with sustainable rural development.

These biogas plants will produce clean energy, organic manure, and other value-added products. In the future, the generated biogas is also expected to be connected to mini bottling units, offering a local alternative to conventional cooking gas.

Additionally, the government plans to promote district-specific industries such as eco-friendly paint, vermicompost, organic fertilizers, and Panchagavya-based products. The initiative is expected to generate employment opportunities, encourage natural farming practices, and strengthen rural entrepreneurship in the region.

Recently, the Noida Authority has also been mulling to build a biogas project at its renowned animal shelter with a vision to recycle the waste efficiently. A veterinary university in Mathura has also announced plans to build a biogas plant in collaboration with national and international agencies.