Why Are Odisha's Coal Power Plants Exempt from Pollution Control Measures?

Concerns Over Pollution Control Exemptions in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) has expressed significant alarm regarding the recent blanket exemption given to almost all coal-fired power facilities in Odisha from the requirement to install Flue Gas Desulfurisation (FGD) systems. This technology is essential for minimizing emissions of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), particulate matter, and mercury. According to the updated emission regulations released by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in July 2025, Category C power plants—which encompass 16 out of 19 thermal units in Odisha, amounting to 8,290 MW—are entirely exempt from the FGD installation mandate.

The three remaining units, totaling 1,050 MW and classified as Category B, may receive exemptions on an individual basis. Notably, none of the coal-fired plants in the state are categorized as Category A, which still has a deadline for pollution control compliance. CREA analyst Manoj Kumar stated, “This decision effectively permits 100 percent of Odisha’s coal power capacity to function without SO2 control systems.” He emphasized that this represents a significant regression in India’s air quality commitments and poses a serious risk to public health.