Kochi and BPCL-KR dispute Brahmapuram biogas plant performance

Kochi's municipal authorities and operator BPCL-KR disagree over recurring problems at the Brahmapuram biogas plant. The city points to inadequate processing, while the operator blames poorly sorted waste.

The Hindu reported that the plant, designed for 150 tonnes, remains subject to frequent shutdowns more than seven months after commissioning. Mayor V.K. Minimol said its agreement allows rejects equivalent to 6-8% of the feedstock. She said some days produced as much as 40 tonnes of rejects from a reported 110 tonnes processed.

BPCL-KR sources said mixed waste clogs equipment and forces workers to clear it manually. They reported instances of animal carcasses arriving with waste. The operator shares the registration numbers of trucks carrying mixed loads so the city can trace their collection areas.

Minimol acknowledged serious sorting problems in West Kochi. Haritha Karma Sena waste collectors are to be held accountable for mixed waste, and junior health inspectors have been told to monitor truck loading.

The city has prioritised a 50-tonne compost facility to process rejects. It is also negotiating with Bhumi Green Energy to handle their plastic fraction.

A separate 150-tonne plant proposed by G3 Renewables Private Limited was approved on August 14 despite LDF opposition. LDF leader V.A. Sreejith accused the UDF-led council of discrediting the existing plant to favour private projects. That remains an opposition allegation.