Polluter penalised

AMID India’s efforts to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and spur a transition to clean energy, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a penalty of Rs 6.93 crore on the Panipat Thermal Power Station for causing air pollution and soil contamination. The tribunal’s message is loud and clear: those who violate laws and cause damage to the environment will have to pay hefty compensation. Fly ash from the thermal plant has been playing havoc with the health of residents of nearby villages, causing serious respiratory problems and increasing the likelihood of accidents due to reduced visibility on roads.

The NGT has also laid bare the polluter’s half-hearted approach to environmental protection, stating that mere plantation of trees without ensuring their survival is not good enough as a remedial measure. The fine is expected to prompt polluting industrial units to mend their ways. India has done well to reduce fiscal subsidies in the oil and gas sector by 85 per cent in a decade (2013-23), but a far bigger push is needed to reach the ambitious target of achieving 50 per cent of its installed power capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030.

Even as the COP29 climate change conference is set to begin today in Azerbaijan, the World Health Organisation has called for ending fossil fuel subsidies and reliance. It has recommended investment in clean, sustainable alternatives that can curb diseases that are surging due to pollution and also cut carbon emissions. Health has to be a priority not only for India but for the entire world while taking action against climate change. Regular monitoring and strict implementation of laws can deter industries from poisoning precious natural resources such as air, water and soil. A zero-tolerance approach is a must to stave off the environmental and health emergency.