The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated efforts to restart the stalled Waste-to-Energy project at Pali Hill in Bandra by inviting fresh proposals to modernise, operate and manage the facility through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) model.
The civic body’s H/West Ward has floated an Expression of Interest (EoI) to establish an SPV that will oversee the revival, upgradation and operation of the decentralised waste-processing plant. Public and private companies, institutions and other eligible organisations have been invited to participate in the process. Tender documents will be available at the H/West Ward office from July 14 to July 27.
The Pali Hill facility was originally launched in 2016 with the aim of processing wet waste locally and generating electricity through biogas. However, the project failed to achieve its intended objectives due to technical challenges, maintenance-related issues and inadequate processing capacity, eventually leading to the plant becoming non-operational.
Under the new plan, the BMC aims to bring upgraded technology and a revised management structure to improve the plant’s efficiency. Civic officials stated that adopting the SPV model will enable private-sector participation, bringing technical expertise and investment to ensure better operations and financial sustainability.
Previously, the facility processed organic waste to generate biogas, which was then converted into electricity. The revamped project will adopt an enhanced approach by producing biogas, electricity and organic manure through modern waste-processing methods.
The civic body also plans to establish a structured operations and maintenance system to ensure the long-term functioning of the facility while strengthening Mumbai’s solid waste management network.
Officials believe that the revived plant will support decentralised waste treatment, reduce the quantity of waste transported to dumping grounds and create a blueprint for similar initiatives across Mumbai.
“Our objective is to dispose of waste scientifically instead of sending it to dumping grounds so that we can create a greener and more eco-friendly environment. In the coming years, we plan to launch similar projects in different wards to reduce the burden on dumping yards. The Pali Hill project is our first step in that direction,” said Kiran Dighavkar, Deputy Municipal Commissioner, BMC.
The revival of the Pali Hill plant is part of the BMC’s broader strategy to improve waste management practices and promote sustainable solutions for urban waste disposal.
Source: Mumbai Mirror
