Green norm ‘violation’: PSPCL deposits half of ₹4.86-cr fine, seeks NGT relief on balance

PSPCL deposited half (₹2.43 crore) of the ₹4.86-crore environmental penalty imposed by CAQM for alleged non-compliance with biomass co-firing norms at Guru Hargobind Thermal Power Plant, Lehra Mohabbat.

The CAQM imposed the penalty on April 1, 2026, after the Bathinda thermal plant allegedly failed to meet mandatory biomass co-firing targets for curbing air pollution.

PSPCL challenged the CAQM order before the National Green Tribunal (NGT), seeking relief from paying the remaining amount and arguing it has a strong prima facie case.

The deposit was made as a bona fide measure without admission of guilt, in line with interim relief granted in similar cases where 50% payment is a condition for stay on recovery.

The NGT hearing is scheduled for July 27, 2026.