Thiruvanathapuram: Following the escalating waste crisis in the state, the Kerala government is proposing to establish centralized bio-CNG plants in major cities. The initiative comes in the wake of a fire incident at the Brahmapuram dumping yard, causing environmental concerns in Kochi.

Following the government's approval, the bio-CNG plants would be constructed in key cities. The work would be immediately commenced in the Kochi plant and its expected to be operational by December 2024. Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode and Thrissur are also under consideration for similar projects.

The state government is moving forward with proposals from oil majors - BPCL and GAIL - for the establishment of bio-CNG plants. The decision stems from the necessity to address the mounting waste issue effectively.

Notably, a failed attempt in the previous term to implement waste-to-energy plants faced opposition from the local communities and raised doubts about project viability.

Since the closure of the Vilappilsala waste treatment plant due to mismanagement and local protests, the Thiruvananthapuram city corporation has been managing waste in a decentralized manner.

BPCL has proposed to establish a bio-CNG plant in Thiruvananthapuram, requiring a minimum of 10 acres of land. The plant, estimated at Rs 150 crore, will have a 150-tonne capacity, and the civic body will supply 150 tonnes of biodegradable waste daily. Similar plans are expected to unfold in other cities, including Thrissur and Kozhikode, with BPCL aiming for project implementation within 18 months.

While the proposal has garnered support, some critics argue that a centralized plant may disrupt the existing decentralized waste management system. Despite differing opinions, the government is pressing forward to address the pressing waste crisis in the state.