Land for waste-to-charcoal plant surveyed amidst villagers’ dissent

The Municipal Corporation of Faridabad (MCF) has begun surveying land in Mothuka village, approved by the state government for the district’s first waste-to-charcoal plant.

This move comes despite local opposition, with residents planning a sit-in protest, citing concerns that the plant may increase air pollution.

Plot identified nine months ago

• The 20-acre plot, identified nine months ago, is now being assessed
• The MoU was signed on July 21 between NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited (NVVNL), a subsidiary of NTPC Limited, and the Municipal Corporations of Gurugram and Faridabad
• The project has been viewed as a significant relief for MCF, which struggles with waste disposal and processing
• The plant aims to convert waste into charcoal, addressing environmental concerns about waste disposal

The 20-acre plot, identified nine months ago, is now being assessed, according to officials. An MoU was signed on July 21 between NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited (NVVNL), a subsidiary of NTPC Limited, and the Municipal Corporations of Gurugram and Faridabad in the presence of Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, and the then Minister of State for Urban Local Bodies. This agreement paved the way for this unique plant in both the district and the state.

The project has been viewed as a significant relief for MCF, which struggles with waste disposal and processing. According to MCF sources, the plant aims to convert waste into charcoal, addressing environmental concerns about waste disposal. Both Faridabad and Gurugram civic bodies have faced challenges due to the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) ban on dumping unprocessed waste at the Bandhwari village landfill due to air and water pollution risks.

With a budget of Rs 500 crore, the project is expected to become operational within 30 months

after work commences. Funded primarily by NVVNL, the MCF will be responsible for completion.

Residents of Mothuka and Arua villages, situated near the proposed site, have demanded the project’s cancellation due to air pollution fears. “A memorandum has already been submitted to officials, including the local MP,” said Mohan Bansal, Sarpanch of Mothuka village. He described the decision as “unjustified,” pointing out that the land was originally acquired for a power generation plant 20 years ago with a condition prohibiting its use for other purposes.

Suraj Pal Bhura, Sarpanch of Chandpur village, added that residents within a 10-km radius will continue to oppose the project.

MCF Executive Engineer Padam Bhushan confirmed the ongoing survey, noting that NVVNL and state authorities would ultimately decide on the plant’s future after a detailed report is prepared.