Centre relaxes pollution control norms for thermal power plants, exempting majority from FGD systems
The Union Environment Ministry has exempted the majority of India's thermal power plants (TPPs) from mandatorily installing Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems, which are designed to cut sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions. Only about 11% of TPPs in Category A (within 10 km radius of NCR or cities with population over a million) must install FGDs. Another 11% in Category B (within 10 km radius of critically polluted areas or non-attainment cities) may or may not install them, while the remaining 78% in Category C are exempt. Critics argue this decision, based on an expert committee's recommendations, will worsen air pollution and increase health risks.
Key Points
- The Union Environment Ministry has relaxed pollution control norms for thermal power plants regarding FGD systems.
- A majority of TPPs (78% in Category C) are now exempt from mandatorily installing Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems.
- FGD systems are crucial for cutting sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions, which contribute to air pollution and secondary particulate matter.
- The decision aligns with recommendations from an expert committee constituted by Principal Science Adviser Ajay Sood.
- Critics warn that this relaxation will lead to increased air pollution, affecting millions of lives and raising the risk of lung and heart diseases due to transboundary pollution.
Exam Facts
- Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems are designed to cut sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions.
- Approximately 11% of India's 600 TPP units (Category A) must install FGD systems.
- 78% of TPPs (Category C) are exempt from FGD installation.
- The recommendations came from an expert committee constituted by Principal Science Adviser Ajay Sood.
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