IIT Bombay Commissions India's First Integrated CCUS Field Laboratory
IIT Bombay commissioned India's first Integrated CCUS Field Laboratory on 11 May 2026, an indigenous pilot that captures up to 3 tonnes of CO2 per day and stores it underground in the Deccan Traps.
On 11 May 2026, IIT Bombay set up India's first Integrated Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) Field Laboratory. The facility was developed under the Bharat Innovates 2026 programme and uses technology designed and built in India.
The pilot plant can process up to 3 tonnes of carbon dioxide a day. It uses an advanced water-based catalytic method to capture carbon dioxide both from the open air and from industrial smoke. A useful feature is that it can work with non-drinking water such as seawater and industrial waste water, so it does not put pressure on clean water sources.
The captured carbon dioxide is then stored deep underground in the rock formations of the Deccan Traps. This process, called geological sequestration, locks the gas away permanently so it cannot return to the atmosphere and add to global warming.
Carbon capture is seen as an important tool for India to cut greenhouse gas emissions while industries keep running. It supports the country's long-term goal of reaching net-zero emissions. IIT Bombay, located in Powai, Mumbai, was established in 1958 and is an Institute of National Importance.
Key Points to Remember
- IIT Bombay set up India's first Integrated CCUS Field Laboratory on 11 May 2026
- Developed under the Bharat Innovates 2026 programme using indigenous technology
- Capacity: up to 3 tonnes of CO2 captured per day
- Uses water-based catalytic capture; works with seawater and industrial effluent
- CO2 stored underground in the Deccan Traps (geological sequestration)
- IIT Bombay: established 1958, Powai (Mumbai), Institute of National Importance
Exam Relevance
Relevant for UPSC Prelims (Environment & Science-Tech — CCUS, net-zero), SSC CGL (General Awareness), and State PCS.
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