NGT Slams Haryana Over Power Plant SO2 Emissions

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued a notice to the Haryana government and seven other respondents concerning alleged non-compliance with sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emission norms at units 6, 7, and 8 of the Panipat Thermal Power Station (PTPS). The petitioner asserts that the mandatory emission control system has not been installed, despite a Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) report highlighting the issue years ago.

NGT recorded allegations that PTPS has not installed a dry sorbent injection (DSI) system, leading to SO₂ emissions exceeding the 600 mg/Nm³ limit. The matter is now slated for January 5, 2027. The petition highlights that the extended compliance deadline is December 31, 2027, but installation could take 12-18 months, leaving insufficient time.

Concerns have been raised about the broader impact of SO₂ emissions on Delhi-NCR's air quality, as they contribute to secondary PM2.5 formation. Reported SO₂ emissions from units 7 and 8 in 2025 were approximately 5,656 tonnes and 5,504 tonnes, respectively, making them significant emitters within a 300-km radius of Delhi.

The petition details that units 6, 7, and 8 consistently recorded SO₂ concentrations above the 600 mg/Nm³ limit in 2024-25, with figures reaching 763 mg/Nm³, 1,001 mg/Nm³, and 943 mg/Nm³. The petitioner seeks time-bound installation of effective SO₂ control systems, such as DSI or flue gas desulphurisation (FGD).

PTPS, classified as a category-A power plant due to its NCR location, is subject to central pollution norms requiring sulphur control measures. A tender process for these systems stalled for over two years, and the original December 31, 2024 deadline was extended to December 2027. A CAG report from a previous period also noted non-compliance with SO₂ and NOx emission norms at HPGCL plants.