NGT Addresses Ground-Level Ozone Pollution

Institution/Legal Reference: National Green Tribunal (NGT)

Nature of Action: Suo motu cognisance of media report on ground-level ozone pollution.

Order Date: September 26, 2025.

Key Findings:

• CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board) reported elevated levels of ground-level ozone in major Indian cities, notably Delhi-NCR and Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
• Primary contributors to elevated ozone levels include:
  • Emissions from the transport sector
  • Power plants
  • Industrial activities
• These activities increase nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the atmosphere.

CPCB Report (September 25, 2025):

• Ozone precursors can also originate from:
  • Biogenic volatile organic compounds
  • Soil-based NOx emissions
  • Carbon monoxide from wildfires
  • Methane from the biosphere

Proposed Actions:

• CPCB proposed a study to identify targeted measures for controlling ozone and its precursors.
• The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change recommended the formation of an expert committee to tackle the issue.

Next Steps: NGT has scheduled a hearing for both matters on November 12, 2025.

Environmental Impact: This case underscores the growing concern regarding air quality and pollution in urban India, particularly with respect to health and ecological consequences associated with ozone levels, emphasizing the need for effective regulatory and remedial measures.

Importance: The rise in ground-level ozone pollution is a critical environmental issue that not only affects air quality but also poses serious public health risks, necessitating immediate government action and collaboration among stakeholders.