Faridabad CETP Faces NGT Probe Over Norm Violations

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has established a committee to investigate alleged environmental norm violations by approximately 250 electroplating units and the Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) in Faridabad's Sector 58 industrial area. This committee, composed of officials from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the state pollution board, and the Faridabad deputy commissioner, is tasked with inspecting the site and verifying the allegations.

The investigation follows a petition alleging that some electroplating units, despite being connected to the CETP, are illegally discharging industrial effluent into open land and natural drains. Furthermore, the CETP itself is reportedly not equipped with the necessary Continuous Emission/Effluent Monitoring System (CEMS) for real-time tracking of its operations. Mandatory disclosures and performance requirements under recent environmental rules are also allegedly not being met.

The CPCB's 2023 report indicated the CETP serves about 210 units with a 0.65 MLD capacity, operating at 98% utilization. However, it also noted minor violations in biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and pH levels for discharge. The petitioner highlighted that such pollution issues have persisted for years, necessitating independent verification.

The joint committee, with the Faridabad deputy commissioner as the nodal agency, is expected to submit its findings and recommendations, including potential penalties, within eight weeks. The NGT has issued notices to the implicated units, and the matter is scheduled for further hearing on August 24, 2026.