New Delhi [India], September 8 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked a petitioner seeking time-bound installation and operationalisation of flue gas desulphurisation (FGD) systems in all category 'A' thermal power plants to approach the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
A bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana said the issues raised in the plea could be effectively addressed by the NGT and requested it to consider the plea for interim relief on priority.
The petitioner's counsel submitted that the deadline for installing FGD systems has been repeatedly extended, while pollution-related environmental damage continues to pose serious health risks to people.
The bench also took note of the counsel’s submission that the deadline for compliance with the FGD installation requirement has been extended till 2027.
The apex court clarified that it had not examined the merits of the petition.
The plea also sought a high-powered committee to monitor FGD installation and compliance with emission norms across category 'A' plants.
FGD systems are used in coal-fired power plants to reduce sulphur dioxide emissions. Category 'A' plants include those located within 10 km of the National Capital Region or cities with a population of over one million.