Kedarnath Route Turns Horse and Mule Dung Into Biofuel Pellets
Uttarakhand's tourism department has processed 25 tonnes of horse and mule dung from the Kedarnath pilgrimage route into biofuel pellets in the first phase of a pilot project.
Current Summary
An initiative by Uttarakhand's tourism department to convert horse and mule dung from the Kedarnath walking route into biofuel has completed its first phase, processing around 25 tonnes of material into pellets. Machinery has been installed at Sonprayag, where dung collected along the pilgrimage route is mixed with pine needles, locally known as pirul, to produce the pellets, which are being supplied to local traders. Officials say preparations are underway to expand production following the success of the initial phase. Dung left by horses and mules has long been a problem on the Kedarnath trail, dirtying the path and making stretches slippery and prone to falls; the project also aims to reduce dung runoff into the river. The initiative is generating work for local people who collect and transport dung, as well as those supplying pine needles.
What We Know
- The tourism department has completed the first phase of a project converting horse and mule dung from the Kedarnath route into biofuel pellets.
- Around 25 tonnes of material have been processed so far.
- Machinery is installed at Sonprayag, where dung is mixed with pine needles (pirul) to make the pellets.
- Pellets are being supplied to local traders, with plans underway to expand production.
- The project generates work for locals collecting and transporting dung and pine needles.
What Is Still Unclear
- Timeline and scale of the planned expansion have not been disclosed.
- Project cost and funding source have not been detailed.
What Changed
- 20 Oct, 12:11 pmSignal detected: Kedarnath Route Turns Horse and Mule Dung Into Biofuel Pellets
Background
Dung left by horses and mules on the Kedarnath walking route has long made the trail dirty and slippery, posing a fall risk for pilgrims, while runoff has contributed to pollution of nearby rivers.