Conference on Fly Ash Utilisation and Transportation in Noida

Today, India’s Ministry of Railways and NTPC convened a National Conference on Fly Ash Utilisation and Transportation at the Power Management Institute in Noida.

Fly ash, a major by-product of thermal power generation, presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The event brought together fly ash generators, users, transporters, and policymakers to discuss and formulate strategies for sustainable fly ash management in India. 

When coal is burned to produce energy, the inorganic minerals and impurities present in the coal do not combust and instead become residue. This residue is divided mainly into two types: bottom ash (which settles at the bottom of the boiler) and fly ash (which remains suspended in the flue gas and is collected by electrostatic precipitators or economiser hoppers). 

The high ash content in Indian coal (typically 30–45%) means that large volumes of fly ash are produced every year. While it requires safe and sustainable handling, it also offers significant potential as a valuable resource for the infrastructure and industrial sectors.

Fly ash is transported from thermal power plants to utilisation sites (such as cement factories, construction projects, and brick manufacturing units) primarily by railways. There are practices mandated to prevent environmental contamination during handling and transit.

The Ministry of Railways, in collaboration with NTPC, India’s leading power generation company, and other key stakeholders, remains committed to developing innovative solutions for the large-scale transportation and effective utilisation of fly ash.

The conference held added significance in the context of government policies mandating and promoting the use of fly ash in cement manufacturing, road construction, mine backfilling, brick production, and other building materials. These initiatives reflect India’s commitment to the principles of a circular economy, cost efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

In 2024–25, India generated 340.11 million tonnes of fly ash, of which 332.63 million tonnes were successfully utilised.

During the year 2024-25, 32% of the total fly ash generated was used in the construction of roads and flyovers, followed by 27% utilised within the cement industry, and 14% in the manufacturing of bricks and tiles (NTPC, 2025).

Backfilling and mine filling accounted for approximately 11% and 10%, respectively. The agricultural sector and ready-mix concrete (RMC) recorded usage, ranging between 1% and 2%.

The conference marked a significant step toward fostering partnerships, sharing insights, and charting a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable fly ash management in India. The deliberations are expected to result in actionable strategies that support cleaner, greener, and more resource-efficient growth.