Delayed C&D waste Plant in Ludhiana to cost triple the price

The long-delayed construction and demolition (C&D) waste disposal plant project in Ludhiana is finally making progress. However, the project's anticipated cost has surged from Rs 2.69 million to Rs 758 million. Moreover, the project has shifted from the Smart City Mission to the Swachh Bharat Mission due to funding constraints. Officials have garnered a positive response from contractors and are optimistic about finalising the tender. Two bidders have shown interest, and the project is awaiting approval from higher authorities in the local bodies department, Chandigarh.The plant's location at the Dhandhari garbage dump site was a challenge as it required clearing legacy waste before construction. The new plan involves inserting underground pillars and laying a concrete slab over the legacy waste, contributing to the increased cost.The project requires 2.5-3 acres of land, following NGT guidelines to distance it from residential areas. The machinery is purchased but can only be installed once the structure is ready. Once operational, the plant will manage 100 tonnes of C&D waste daily.Despite six designated dumping sites, C&D waste remains scattered across Ludhiana. The plant aims to address this waste management challenge and aligns with the Swachh Bharat Mission's objectives.