NITI Aayog raised concerns with its recent proposal to halt the installation of equipment meant to curb sulphur emissions at coal-fired power plants. India has one of the highest levels of air pollution globally, posing serious health and economic risks.
In the past, the government set strict emission limits for coal power plants, initially mandating that flue gas desulphurisation (FGD) systems be installed by 2017. However, due to financial and operational difficulties within the power sector, the deadline was pushed back to 2026.
Now, NITI Aayog is calling on the environment and power ministries to instruct coal-fired power stations to stop placing new orders for equipment that reduces sulphur emissions.
If accepted, the recommendation could lead to the cancellation of tenders valued at around ₹960 billion, aimed at equipping 80,000 megawatts of coal generation capacity with FGD units.
Environmental groups have strongly criticized NITI Aayog’s proposal, pointing out that coal plants are responsible for approximately 80% of India’s industrial emissions of sulphur and nitrogen oxides. The pollutants contribute to lung disease and acid rain.
A 2019 report from Greenpeace identified India as the world’s largest emitter of sulphur dioxide (SO2), with most emissions stemming from coal-fired plants.
India faces the challenging task of balancing its growing energy demands with the need to address escalating environmental and health concerns. As reported by knnindia.co.in, the outcome of the proposal is likely to influence future discussions on energy policy, environmental protection, and public health in the country.
