February 25, 2026 : The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Punjab government to strictly enforce the use of cleaner fuels in industries operating in Mandi Gobindgarh, a major industrial hub often called the “Steel City of Punjab,” as part of measures to address persistent air pollution in the region. The tribunal disposed of a petition that alleged large-scale violations of air quality norms by industries running coal-based furnaces in the town.

The case was filed by Dimpal Kumar, who sought directions to shut down industries using coal-based furnaces until they switched to piped natural gas (PNG) and other cleaner fuels. The petitioner also requested the relocation of non-conforming industries and better enforcement of hazardous waste management rules.

While hearing the matter, a bench headed by Justice Prakash Shrivastava noted that Mandi Gobindgarh has been identified as a “non-attainment city,” meaning its air quality does not meet national standards. Authorities had already prepared a Clean Air Action Plan for the industrial region, but concerns persisted over pollution from industrial emissions, heavy vehicular traffic, and road dust.

A joint committee comprising officials from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB), and local administration inspected the area and submitted a detailed report. According to the report, about 220 industries operate in the industrial belt of Mandi Gobindgarh, including rolling mills, forging units, ceramic plants, and other metal-processing industries.

Investigations revealed that many of these units had initially shifted to cleaner fuel such as PNG, but some reverted to coal after gas prices rose sharply following global disruptions, including the Russia–Ukraine war. Industry representatives argued that higher gas prices made them less competitive compared with neighbouring states where coal use continues.

The tribunal, however, held that economic considerations cannot override environmental obligations. It observed that the Punjab government has already notified a state fuel policy requiring industries to shift to cleaner fuels wherever such options are available. With this policy now in force, the earlier temporary relief allowing industries to use coal no longer applies.

Data placed before the tribunal showed that out of 258 industries required to adopt cleaner fuels, 113 were already using PNG or LPG, while 34 had closed permanently. In 96 cases, authorities had initiated action to disconnect electricity supply for non-compliance, and several other units were facing closure proceedings.

Studies conducted by IIT Delhi also indicated that vehicular pollution contributes around 35 percent of air pollution in Mandi Gobindgarh, while industrial emissions account for about 26 percent. The tribunal noted that road dust, traffic congestion, and poorly maintained roads also worsen air quality in the industrial town.

In its final order, the NGT directed the Punjab government to ensure full compliance with earlier tribunal directions requiring rolling mills and similar industries to shift from coal to PNG. It also ordered strict implementation of the state’s fuel policy, enforcement of CPCB directions on prohibited fuels such as pet coke and furnace oil, and adherence to recommendations made by the joint committee for improving air quality.

The tribunal further instructed the state government to conduct a carrying capacity study of Mandi Gobindgarh within three months and submit a compliance report to the tribunal. This study will assess the region’s ability to sustain industrial activity without causing unacceptable environmental damage.

Case Reference : Original Application No. 295/2023 (IA No. 42/2025 & IA No. 218/2025): Dimpal Kumar v. State of Punjab & Ors.; Applicant represented by Mr. Raj Panjwani, Senior Advocate with Mr. I.K. Kapila, Advocate; Respondents represented by Mr. Rahul Mehra, Senior Advocate with Mr. M.S. Bedi, Advocate General, Ms. Baani Khanna, Mr. Chatanya Gosain, Mr. Robin Singh and Mr. Hanif for the State of Punjab; Mr. A.D.N. Rao, Senior Advocate with Mr. Rahul Mishra, Mr. Rahul Gupta, Ms. Deepti Gupta, Ms. Ankeeta Appanna and Ms. Himanshi Gupta for Respondents 8–20; Mr. A.R. Takkar, Ms. Aastha Tyagi, Mr. Manan Takkar, Mr. Yash Dewan and Mr. Prince Sharma for Respondent 3; Ms. Suhasini Sen, Ms. Supraja V. and Ms. Masooma Rizvi for MoEF&CC; Mr. Aman Dubey and Mr. J.H. Jafri for PPCB; Mr. Anuj Bhandari for CPCB; Mr. Ashutosh Bhardwaj for Respondent 3; Ms. Madhu Sweta and Mr. Yash Kapoor for Respondent 4 (through VC); and Mr. Prashant Manchanda for Respondent 5.