Southern States directed to use clean air funds, NGT flags particulate pollution
The National Green Tribunal's Southern Zone Bench has directed all five southern States and Puducherry to ensure strict and time-bound implementation of their State Action Plans (SAPs) under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). The NGT flagged persistent particulate pollution across the region and warned that continued under-utilisation of clean air funds could attract environmental compensation. This directive highlights air pollution governance in the southern States, an issue often overshadowed by concerns in northern regions like Delhi-NCR. Karnataka, for instance, utilized only 13% of its allocated funds by October 2024, though a later affidavit reported 76% utilization by September 2025.
Key Points
- NGT's Southern Zone Bench directed southern States and Puducherry to implement State Action Plans under NCAP.
- The tribunal highlighted persistent particulate pollution in the region.
- Under-utilisation of clean air funds could attract environmental compensation.
- Air pollution governance in southern states is gaining focus, traditionally dominated by northern regions.
Exam Facts
- National Green Tribunal (NGT) Southern Zone Bench issued the directive.
- The directive is related to the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).
- Karnataka received ₹597.54 crore between 2019-20 and 2023-24.
- Karnataka utilized 13% by Oct 2024, later 76% by Sep 2025.
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