Deadlock Over Mushkabad CBG Plant Resolved After Series of Meetings; Villagers Hold Shukrana Path

Ludhiana, January 1, 2025: After numerous rounds of discussions between the administration, technical experts, and the local community, the long-pending dispute over the proposed Compressed Biogas (CBG) plant in Mushkabad has finally been settled. Marking this successful resolution, officials today attended a Shukrana Path organised by the villagers.

After several meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain, along with SSP Khanna Dr. Jyoti Yadav Bains and SDM Rajneesh Arora, played a key role in bridging the gap between stakeholders. A 14-member expert panel — consisting of specialists from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), IIT Ropar, IIT Delhi, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) Ludhiana, and the Oncology Department of PGI — addressed all technical and health-related queries in detail. The committee also included experts recommended by villagers to ensure full transparency and participatory involvement.

The experts categorically stated that CBG plants have no proven correlation with cancer or other major health risks. They explained that paddy straw is used as the primary raw material, making CBG plants a sustainable alternative to stubble burning — a major cause of seasonal air pollution in Punjab. They further clarified that the chemicals involved in biogas production are non-carcinogenic, posing no threat to soil, groundwater, or the environment.

Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain reaffirmed that CBG plants fall under the green category of industries, requiring compliance with strict environmental norms. To ensure continuous monitoring, a village-level committee headed by a Tehsildar-rank officer and comprising local residents will be authorised to conduct surprise inspections at any time to check for pollution or procedural violations.

The administration also announced a development package for Mushkabad, including road widening and strengthening, establishment of a community centre and gym, installation of CCTV cameras and street lights, pond rejuvenation, and other public infrastructure works. The plant will prioritise employment opportunities for villagers, along with necessary skill training.

With concerns addressed and trust restored, the settlement marks the end of protests and sets the stage for progress in renewable energy, promoting Punjab’s vision of sustainable waste management and clean fuel production.