Cleaning Up the Yamuna: MCD Turns Cow Dung into Clean Energy

In a major step toward reducing pollution in the Yamuna River, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is establishing biogas plants in key dairy colonies to scientifically treat cattle dung and prevent its discharge into the drainage system.

The first of these facilities, located at Nangli Dairy, is set to become operational in August. Additional plants are planned for Goyla and Ghoga dairies. According to Satya Sharma, Chairperson of the MCD Standing Committee, the initiative is part of a broader effort to responsibly manage organic waste—particularly from dairy clusters, which have been identified as significant contributors to water pollution. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has also directed the MCD to accelerate actions aimed at reducing waste inflow into the Yamuna.

Currently, over 1,500 dairies in Nangli and Goyla produce large volumes of cattle dung, much of which enters the Najafgarh Drain untreated, severely affecting the Yamuna’s water quality. Each biogas plant, with an estimated cost of ₹16 crore, will process up to 200 metric tonnes of dung per day. The processed output will be converted into compressed natural gas (CNG) and organic manure, which will be used by MCD for horticultural purposes.

Beyond curbing river pollution, the initiative is expected to control foul odors, improve sanitation in the area, and support sustainable energy generation.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.