Supreme Court Takes Strict Stance Against Delhi-NCR Pollution: Will Coal-Based Industries Be Relocated?

New Delhi: February 23, 2026

Supreme Court took significant step to curb rising air pollution in Delhi-NCR. During Monday hearing, court seriously discussed relocating coal-based industries and thermal power plants away from Delhi borders.

300 km Perimeter Proposal

Key proposal presented in court:

• No-Go Zone: No new coal-based thermal plants within 300 km radius of Delhi border.

• Relocation: Existing coal industries in Delhi-NCR recommended for shifting outside region.

• Objective: Reduce toxic coal smoke pollution, especially worsening Delhi air in winters.

Court Directives

Bench issued following orders:

• Centre’s Response: Government must clarify relocation feasibility and action plan.

• Neighboring States Notice: UP, Haryana, Rajasthan ordered to issue public notices on coal industries.

• Practicality Check: Ministries to specify relocation obstacles and implementation roadmap.

Industry Impact

If implemented, hundreds of units in NCR industrial hubs (Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Gurugram, Bhiwadi) face closure or switch to clean fuels like PNG.