Sunil Chadha
Una: The upcoming Bulk Drug Park at Haroli in Una district of Himachal Pradesh is setting a benchmark in clean and sustainable industrial development by adopting a multi-fuel steam generation system. In a first for Himachal Pradesh, the energy required for steam production in active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) manufacturing will be generated using pine needles, biomass and agro-waste.
The park will house six advanced multi-fuel boilers, each with a capacity of 50 tonnes per hour, enabling a total output of 300 tonnes of steam per hour. This system is equipped with automated fuel feeding, flue gas treatment, and heat recovery technologies that enhance efficiency while minimising environmental impact.
Green model for Himachal
This environment-friendly fuel approach addresses multiple challenges at once. The use of dry pine needles, which are a major cause of forest fires in the lower Himalayan belt, will now serve as a valuable fuel source. Instead of burning unused pine waste, it will now power boilers at the drug park, reducing wildfire risk and environmental damage.
If integrated with schemes like MNREGA, a structured supply chain for pine needle collection could be developed, benefiting districts like Kangra, Mandi and Bilaspur, where pine forests are abundant.
Turning farm waste into rural wealth
The innovative boiler system will also utilise agricultural residue such as straw from paddy, wheat and maize, creating a new income stream for farmers. This initiative can significantly reduce the practice of stubble burning, which has long been a source of air pollution in the region.
By offering a commercial outlet for agro-waste, the project promises to bring economic and environmental benefits to bordering states like Punjab and Haryana as well.
This sustainable energy model is not just green but people-centric. The collection, transport and processing of pine needles and agro-waste will generate employment for hundreds of rural youth and women, contributing to a stronger rural economy.
Blueprint for industrial self-reliance
By combining eco-friendly technology with local resource utilisation, the Haroli Bulk Drug Park is emerging as a model of environmental protection, rural employment and industrial self-reliance.
Himachal Pradesh is not only stepping into a new era of pharmaceutical manufacturing but is also showcasing how large-scale industry can thrive while remaining in harmony with nature and community.
