Ludhiana Pollution: NGT Issues ‘Code Red' to Dyeing Hub Over Toxic Air Concerns
The intervention stems from a petition filed by the Public Action Committee (PAC).
Ludhiana Pollution: NGT Issues ‘Code Red’ to Dyeing Hub Over Toxic Air Concerns
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued a "code red" to Ludhiana’s dyeing industry following grave allegations of illegal fuel usage and systematic environmental data suppression. The tribunal has served notices to the Punjab Dyers Association (PDA), Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB), Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), and the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation, demanding a formal response by April 14.
The intervention stems from a petition filed by the Public Action Committee (PAC), which alleges that units connected to the Tajpur Road effluent treatment plant are burning prohibited fuels, including pet coke, rice husk, and cow dung.
According to PAC members Kapil Arora and Kuldeep Singh Khaira, these operations have generated hazardous fly ash and toxic clouds that have settled over residential areas and the Tajpur Jail.
Activists point out that the PPCB has been "whitewashing" pollution data by placing the city's only air monitor inside the pristine Punjab Agricultural University campus, rather than near industrial clusters.
The petition highlights an increase in respiratory ailments, skin conditions, and eye irritation among local residents.
The NGT has been urged to order independent surprise inspections and the immediate closure of repeat violators.
The applicants have also requested the installation of three additional monitoring stations to ensure an accurate reflection of Ludhiana’s deteriorating air quality.
Source: Times of India