Over 100 bio-gas plants were set up by the Bangladesh Industrial and Scientific Research Institute (BISRI) in Bhaluka, Mymensingh Sadar and Phulpur upazilas since 1996. The aim of the project was to bring a revolutionary change in the lifestyle of rural housewives through a cheaper cooking method.

In Bhaluka upazila only, 65 bio-gas plants were set up so far, according to Sub-Assistant Engineer (SAE) of the plant, Md Harun-or-Rashid. A plant costs Tk 13,000 to 14,000 but the government gives Tk 7,500 as subsidy and the rest is being borne by consumers.

A family consisting of eight to 10 members can avail of the facility of cooking from a plant, the SAE said adding a plant can be run by cow dung collected from eight to 10 cows. A farmer can easily install a plant by using cow dung, herbs, hyacinth and poultry stools, main raw materials of bio-gas plant, disclosed the SAE.

The residue of the plant can be used as a rich bio-fertiliser in pearl and mushroom cultivation, animal and poultry feed and fish cultivation, according to the SAE.

A bio-gas consumer at Rangchapra village in Bhaluka upazila, Md Mufizul Islam told The Daily Star a farmer can easily take service of such a plant using the aforementioned raw materials available in villages. The plant helps minimise fuel cost at the same time keeps environment pollution-free on the other, Mafizul told this correspondent.

Bio-gas is also environment and agriculture- friendly. The gas is also used in operating electronic devices such as radio, television, irrigation pumps, motorised vehicles, incubator and for preservation of fruits and foodgrains.