NGT Calls for Enduring Solution to Buddha Dariya Pollution Crisis
The National Green Tribunal (NGT), while adjudicating multiple petitions concerning the severe pollution in Ludhiana's Buddha Dariya, has strongly emphasized the necessity for a permanent resolution to this environmental crisis. In its recent orders, the Tribunal explicitly stated that it must be guaranteed the water body remains free from contamination by industrial units or other violators, even during periods when the case is not under active NGT scrutiny.
Directives to Regulatory Bodies
The NGT has instructed the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) and the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) to incorporate this requirement into their long-term strategies for addressing pollution in the Buddha Nallah. Furthermore, the Tribunal has directed the PPCB to take necessary actions to impose environmental compensation on industries found flouting environmental regulations.
Scientific Study Commissioned
According to an affidavit submitted by the PPCB on September 30, 2025, the board has awarded a comprehensive study titled "Source apportionment and comprehensive investigation of pollution in Buddha Dariya" to the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Ropar. The contract is valued at ₹1.44 crore plus GST.
The PPCB asserts that this study is designed to establish a scientific foundation for river rejuvenation initiatives across the state. It aims to empower regulators, industries, and local municipal bodies to implement targeted interventions, enhance compliance monitoring mechanisms, and ultimately restore the ecological and socio-economic value of Buddha Nullah and the downstream sections of the Sutlej River. IIT Ropar is expected to complete this critical study by March 31.
The NGT noted that while the cost of the study appears prima facie high, it chose not to delve into that specific issue at the current stage of proceedings.
Ongoing Investigations and Hearings
Representing the MoEF&CC, counsel informed the Tribunal that, in compliance with previous NGT orders and a statement made on July 26, 2025, the process of granting hearings and making decisions is actively underway. She reported that water samples have been requested from both the PPCB and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), collected from the Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) discharge point and other identified downstream locations.
A significant concern raised during the hearing was that violators might ensure temporary compliance only during the Tribunal's proceedings, potentially skewing sample results and not reflecting the true, ongoing pollution situation.
The NGT has permitted the MoEF&CC and PPCB to file their detailed reports at least one week prior to the next scheduled hearing on April 20. The MoEF&CC counsel indicated that a period of three months is required to complete the comprehensive exercise and submit the final report.
Key Takeaways from the NGT Hearing
- The Tribunal mandates that the Buddha Dariya must remain pollution-free even without active NGT monitoring.
- The MoEF&CC and PPCB are instructed to factor this permanence into their long-term pollution abatement plans.
- PPCB is directed to impose environmental compensation on non-compliant industries.
- A ₹1.44-crore study by IIT Ropar aims to identify pollution sources and support targeted restoration efforts.
- The study is expected to conclude by March 31, providing a basis for improved compliance and ecological recovery.
- The NGT acknowledged the study's high cost but deferred examination of the issue.
- MoEF&CC's sampling exercise is ongoing, with samples taken from CETP and downstream points.
- The Tribunal warned that violators' temporary compliance during proceedings could distort true pollution levels.
- Next hearing is set for April 20, with reports due one week prior.
- MoEF&CC requests three months to finalize and submit its comprehensive report.
