Unnao: The first biodiesel plant in Dahi Chauki Industrial Area Site-1 has been completed and efforts are on to make it operational soon. Built at a cost of ₹20 crore, the plant is expected to provide direct employment to nearly 5,000 people. Indian Oil has also approved the purchase of biodiesel from this facility, reports Amar Ujala.
The Centre and the Uttar Pradesh government are working to reduce dependence on crude oil by promoting biodiesel production. In line with this goal, several biodiesel plants are being set up across the State. The Unnao plant, near Chandpur, was launched two years ago and has now been completed. Authorities are now expediting steps to start its operations.
Unnao is fast emerging as a hub for industrial ventures, including biodiesel plants. While the Dahi Chauki unit is ready, plants under construction in Bighapur and Safipur are expected to start functioning within six months. According to industry officials, the raw materials required for biodiesel include animal fat, which will be easily available in the area due to the presence of six slaughterhouses. This availability has encouraged many entrepreneurs to invest in setting up such plants.
At the plant, raw materials such as animal fat and vegetable oil will be blended with alcohol through various machines to produce biodiesel. Regional Pollution Control Officer Dr. Shashibind said biodiesel is a renewable fuel and emits fewer harmful gases compared to conventional diesel, making it environmentally friendly.
Officials said the Dahi Chauki unit will directly employ around 5,000 people while also creating opportunities for farmers and local businesses. With the easy availability of animal fat in the region, the supply of raw materials for plant operations will not be a challenge, said Ravi Kumar, Nivesh Mitra, Industries Department.
