Jalandhar: Minister lays foundation stone of Rs 32.32 crore bio-mining project at Wariana dump

Jalandhar: Punjab Local Bodies Minister Balkar Singh today laid the foundation stone of the much-awaited biomining project at Wariana dump site. The project is to be developed at a cost of Rs 32.32 crore. Highlighting the importance of the project, the minister said it would help in scientifically managing and disposing of over 80 lakh tonnes of solid waste accumulated at Wariana dump in the next 26 months. He said a Maharashtra-based company would oversee the processing of the waste, which includes biomining, bioculture excavation, maintenance, loading, transportation and management of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) in compliance with solid waste management rules.

Balkar expressed hope that the initiative would help Jalandhar residents get rid of the huge pile of garbage accumulated at Wariana. He said it would also lead to significant improvement in local pollution indicators. An additional Rs 2.80 crore has been allocated for the supply, installation and commissioning of bio-mining machinery as per technical specifications. He said that the project would fulfil a long pending demand of the people of Jalandhar including the elimination of massive garbage dumps in the city. He asked the senior officers of Jalandhar Municipal Corporation to personally monitor the entire project and ensure that it gets completed on time. Reaffirming the government’s commitment to urban development, the minister said there was no dearth of funds for executing development projects and enhancing civic amenities. He assured the people that more such mega projects would be launched soon to improve the living standards of people in the cities of the state.