Ahmedabad: A World Bank veterinary team has praised the Amdavad Municipal Corporation’s (AMC) innovative and sustainable livestock management initiatives at Bakrol Gaushala, describing it as a model for urban gaushalas and circular economy practices.

The three-member delegation, comprising Dr. Ashok Kumar, Jeevan Mohanty, and Dr. S.K. Rana, along with Chief District Veterinary Officer Dr. Shailesh I. Patel, visited Bakrol Gaushala-Karuna Mandir, promoted as a “cow tourism” destination in Ahmedabad, on May 19. The visit was part of a study and field interaction programme focusing on best management practices in cow dung-based products, bio-fertilizers, biogas generation, waste-to-energy initiatives, veterinary bio-waste sustainability, livestock management, and technology-driven monitoring systems.

During the visit, the team interacted with officials and stakeholders and reviewed various projects functioning at the gaushala under the AMC’s Cattle Nuisance Control Department (CNCD). The delegation conducted detailed discussions on circular economy models, sustainable gaushala operations, and need-based assessments for net-zero initiatives.

AMC highlighted that cow dung generated at the gaushala is being effectively utilised to produce bio-fertilizers, biogas, slurry, dung sticks, and other products. Around 12 kg of biogas is used daily for community kitchen activities, including preparing nearly 750 rotis for cows and stray dogs. An additional 14 kg of unused biogas is utilised to generate around 32 units of electricity, powering lights and fans on the campus.

The gaushala has also installed 12 solar panels, helping save around 22 units of electricity daily. Liquid slurry is bottled and distributed for kitchen gardens and plantations, while compost is used for gardens, nurseries, the riverfront, and household gardening. Cow dung sticks and cakes are also being used for community kitchens, religious events, cremation purposes, and eco-friendly celebrations such as Vedic Holi.

According to AMC, the integrated cycle of cow dung processing — from biogas generation and roti production to citizen participation and gau seva donations — has created a successful circular economy model.

The World Bank team reportedly expressed appreciation for the gaushala’s zero-waste management system and self-sustaining operations, stating that the model aligns with the principles of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Resource Recovery, and India’s broader Net Zero-2047 vision. Officials said the initiative could serve as a replicable model for urban cities and livestock management facilities across the country. DeshGujarat