Heidelberg Cement India has announced plans to set up a 200,000-tonne cement plant at the Sant Singaji thermal power station in Dogalia, Madhya Pradesh. Spread across a seven-hectare site, the project will convert coal-fired power sludge—currently stored in dams—into cement, marking a major step towards cleaner industrial processes. Construction is expected to begin by late 2025, with operations slated to start around 18 months later, aligning economic expansion with environmental responsibility. The initiative reflects India’s wider shift towards circular economy practices, where industrial waste becomes an input for new production. By using coal sludge as a key raw material, Heidelberg Cement India will reduce the ecological impact of power generation while lowering dependence on conventional resources such as limestone. According to sustainability experts, this approach addresses critical challenges in both waste management and the carbon intensity of cement manufacturing. State officials have welcomed the project as a catalyst for regional development. Beyond its environmental benefits, the plant is expected to generate employment during construction and operations. Urban planners note that integrating eco-conscious manufacturing into industrial hubs strengthens inclusive growth and supports broader sustainability targets at both state and national levels. Producing cement from coal-fired sludge requires precise chemical monitoring to maintain product quality. Heidelberg Cement India has committed to deploying advanced processing systems and emission-control technology to meet national environmental standards and contribute to Madhya Pradesh’s net-zero ambitions. Experts say the Dogalia plant signals a broader change in India’s industrial strategy as the country accelerates its transition to low-carbon manufacturing. Converting industrial by-products into high-value materials sets important benchmarks for future projects and may inspire similar plants in other regions. From a planning perspective, incorporating sustainable industrial operations into regional ecosystems strengthens urban-rural linkages. Repurposing industrial waste reduces pressure on landfills while supporting supply chains for construction and infrastructure. By promoting responsible industrial development, Madhya Pradesh is positioning itself as a model for sustainable industrial zones that balance economic growth, environmental stewardship and community welfare. The Dogalia plant illustrates how targeted investment in eco-friendly manufacturing can advance a circular economy, tackle industrial waste challenges and contribute to more resilient and sustainable built environments.