Scrutinizing Sulphur: Power Plants and India's Air Pollution Debate

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticized the proposal to suspend anti-pollution measures for power plants. He highlighted the health risks of sulphur dioxide emissions, contradicting suggestions of minimal public health impact. This response followed reports of the NITI Aayog advising against mandatory emissions cutting equipment.

Jairam Ramesh, former Union environment minister and Congress leader, has sharply criticized proposals against curbing sulphur dioxide emissions from power plants. Highlighting the health risks, Ramesh labeled any dismissal of these concerns as 'ridiculous.'

This critique emerged in response to media reports indicating that the government think-tank, NITI Aayog, has suggested halting the mandatory installation of sulphur-cutting equipment at coal-fired power plants. Despite the claims, there has been no official confirmation from NITI Aayog.

Ramesh underscored India's status as the world's largest emitter of sulphur dioxide, attributing significant air pollution levels to power plant emissions. He reminded stakeholders of the previously agreed installation deadline for fluoride gas desulphurisers, first set for 2017 and later extended to 2026, now potentially facing dismissal.

(With inputs from agencies.)