The industrial city of Pimpri-Chinchwad has been grappling with the challenge of dry Waste disposal, leading to pollution and environmental concerns. However, a game-changing solution is on the horizon with the upcoming inauguration of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation’s (PCMC) waste-to-energy plant. This ambitious project, scheduled to be commissioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 1, promises to be a pioneering endeavor in Maharashtra, capable of converting 700 metric tonnes of dry waste into electricity daily.

The First-of-Its-Kind in Maharashtra

PCMC commissioner Shekhar Singh shared his optimism about the plant’s potential impact, stating that the daily processing of 700 metric tonnes of dry waste would effectively address the challenge of waste disposal. By converting this waste into electricity, the project would not only contribute to cleaner surroundings but also save the municipality a substantial Rs 20 crore annually.

A Step Towards Sustainable Waste Management

The waste-to-energy plant, located at PCMC’s garbage depot in Moshi, along the Pune-Nashik Highway, is set to change the landscape of waste management in the region. While 450 metric tonnes of wet waste are already converted into compost, the dry waste’s transformation into electricity would complete the circle of ‘reduce, reuse, and recycle,’ making it an environmentally friendly, sustainable, and efficient solution.

Resolving Pollution Complaints and Future Planning

Residents of Moshi, who have long complained about pollution emanating from the garbage depot, can anticipate a cleaner and greener future with the commissioning of the waste-to-energy plant. The PCMC is confident that once operational, the plant will handle not only the current volume of dry garbage but also cater to future needs. This development will be followed by bio-mining processes to flatten the existing waste mounds, ensuring a cleaner environment with no more towering landfills.

An Ambitious Endeavor

The scale and scope of the waste-to-energy project are indeed commendable. With an estimated capacity to generate 14MW of electricity, this pioneering venture is set to be the first-of-its-kind within Maharashtra. Though there are a few similar plants outside the state, this project’s magnitude and potential for impact are unmatched.

Public-Private Partnership for a Sustainable Future

The waste-to-energy plant operates on a ‘design, build, operate, and transfer’ model, in collaboration with Antony Lara Renewable Energy Private Ltd. This public-private partnership ensures a seamless flow of clean and renewable energy into the municipality’s power grid. The agreement, with a reduced rate up to Rs 5 per unit for 21 years, offers stability and certainty in power procurement.

Adherence to Environmental Standards

The project fully complies with the Municipal Solid Waste Management Rules of 2016, with emissions strictly monitored through a Continuous Emissions Monitoring System. By adhering to rigorous environmental standards, the waste-to-energy plant promises to be a responsible and eco-friendly initiative.

Massive Savings and Sustainable Growth

The waste-to-energy plant is not just a significant leap forward in waste management practices; it also represents a major cost-saving measure. The generated electricity will power PCMC’s sewage treatment plants and water pumping facilities, leading to a notable reduction in electricity bills. With annual savings projected at a substantial Rs 20 crore, the plant becomes an economic boon for the city.

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