NGT Observations Vindicate Concerns Over Buddha Nullah Pollution; Punjab Must Ensure Strict Implementation: MP Vikram Sahney

Chandigarh, July 24, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)

Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Vikramjit Singh Sahney on Friday said the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) observations on Buddha Nullah pollution have vindicated long-standing concerns over the deteriorating condition of the water body and underlined the need for strict implementation of remedial measures by the Punjab Government.

Referring to a reply from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to a question he raised in Parliament, Dr. Sahney said the NGT, in its January 13, 2026 order, directed the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) to impose and recover environmental compensation from industries violating pollution norms. The reply also stated that repeated inspections by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) found all four Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs) in Ludhiana to be non-compliant with prescribed discharge standards, prompting the CPCB to direct the PPCB to stop the discharge of untreated effluents into Buddha Nullah.

Welcoming the Punjab Government’s decision to constitute a High-Level Committee, Dr. Sahney noted that the PPCB has already imposed environmental compensation of about ₹21.18 crore on defaulting units under the ‘Polluter Pays Principle’. He urged the State Government to ensure that the Committee submits a time-bound action plan with clearly defined responsibilities, measurable milestones and regular progress reviews so that the long-delayed rejuvenation of Buddha Nullah delivers tangible results.