Ludhiana: NGT orders strict compliance on Tajpur Road fly ash dumping

The NGT, while hearing the PAC's application against the Punjab Dyers Association and others, took note of the affidavit and directed authorities to ensure strict compliance with environmental norms. It underscored the need for on-ground verification through site inspections and for identifying responsible entities in cases of illegal dumping. The affidavit stated that fly ash, generated from approved fuels such as rice husk and agro-waste, is non-hazardous and often reused, though improper dumping can cause nuisance.

The PPCB filed an affidavit stating that the allegations against the Punjab Dyers Association and its member units lack substantive evidence and are largely based on isolated photographs. It clarified that the 50 MLD CETP at Tajpur Road is engaged solely in treating wastewater and does not generate fly ash. It noted that around 110 member units have obtained consent to operate under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

In its order dated January 8, 2026, the National Green Tribunal directed the respondents, including the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB), to file replies and furnish factual reports on the PAC's allegations. It emphasized on-ground verification through site inspections and the submission of action-taken reports, and called for identification of entities responsible for any illegal dumping.

CPCB communications dated September 17, 2021 reiterated that no fresh work orders for additional CAAQMS were to be issued, and that Ludhiana currently has one installed CAAQMS as per revised guidelines.

CPCB communications dated June 10, 2021 stated that no fresh work orders for additional Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) were to be issued and that currently one CAAQMS has been installed in Ludhiana in line with revised guidelines.