Rs 5 Crore Fine Imposed on Ropar Thermal Plant

Ropar (Rupnagar), Punjab : In a strong move to enforce environmental regulations, the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) has slapped a hefty fine of ₹5 crore on the Ropar Thermal Power Plant. The action comes in response to serious violations of environmental norms by the plant, located in Ropar (Rupnagar) district of Punjab.

The PPCB has not only imposed the financial penalty but has also cancelled the plant’s operational permission, citing repeated breaches of pollution control measures. According to PPCB officials, inspections revealed that the thermal plant was failing to comply with the prescribed emission standards and waste management protocols, thereby posing a threat to the environment and public health.

Sources within the department said that despite several warnings and opportunities to rectify the issues, the plant authorities continued to operate in violation of key environmental rules. These include improper handling of fly ash, excessive air pollution emissions, and inadequate monitoring systems. The lack of basic compliance reportedly led to serious environmental degradation in the surrounding areas, including air and soil contamination.

The fine and cancellation of operational permission signal a strict warning to other industrial units across the state. “We will not tolerate negligence when it comes to environmental responsibilities. Strict action will be taken against any unit endangering ecological balance and public health,” said a senior PPCB official.

Local environmental activists and residents have welcomed the PPCB’s decision. Many have complained over the years about rising pollution levels in and around the Ropar area due to the plant’s emissions. “This is a victory for our environment. Authorities should continue to take bold steps to protect nature,” said one local resident.

The thermal power plant management, however, has yet to issue an official response. There is speculation that they may appeal the decision in a higher court or seek to reapply for permissions after making necessary upgrades.

As Punjab continues to grapple with rising industrial pollution, this action by the PPCB may serve as a precedent-setting case, pushing other industries to take compliance more seriously. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the plant makes a comeback — or remains a cautionary tale in the state’s fight for environmental protection.