Biodegradable waste to power Raigad’s street lights

In a one-of-its-kind example of the perks of efficient waste segregation, the biodegradable waste of Raigadkars will soon power around 500 streetlights across the district. Even as a Bhandup-based NGO, working in the field of “Green Lifestyle”, with the help of residents and the civic body, is set to collect and treat nearly 10 tonnes of biodegradable waste; two plants, slated to be functional by next month, will power around 250 street bulbs each.

Civic officials confirmed that the plan of garbage segregation and biogas creation was in its final stage and would be set up in a month or so.

Officials said that there would be two plants set up, each with the capacity to treat five tonnes of biodegradable garbage.

“Biogas and compost will be the two essential byproducts of the plants. Though they have a huge capacity of five tonnes each, only a few people will be needed to run them since they only have to ascertain that the garbage is biodegradable. Interestingly, though the plant also needs electricity to run, it will be self-sufficient with the help of electricity generated by biogas,” said an official.

Each plant will create enough electricity to power around 250 to 300 bulbs of 11 watts each. Together, the two plants will support more than 500 street bulbs and will soon light up the streets of Raigad.

Officials confirmed that the proposals were being approved and the implementation process would start soon.

As the plant does not take more than 20 to 25 days to process garbage and create biogas, officials are certain that the process will be over by June first week.