Thu Jan 23 06:13:27 UTC 2025: ## Andhra Pradesh Power Plant Ordered to Address Pollution Concerns by NGT

**Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, January 23, 2025** – The Southern Zonal Bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in Chennai has ordered notices to be served to the Dr. Narla Tatarao Thermal Power Station (NTTPS) and the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) regarding pollution concerns at the state-owned power plant.

The case, initially registered suo motu by the NGT’s Principal Bench in New Delhi based on a *Hindu* report detailing November 2024 citizen protests, has been transferred to the Chennai Bench. The APPCB submitted a report on January 10, 2025, detailing monitoring efforts and actions taken, including directives issued to NTTPS to comply with air and water quality standards.

The report reveals that AP Power Generation Corporation Limited (AP-Genco) has allocated ₹59 crore (approximately $7.1 million USD) since December 2023 for pollution mitigation measures, focusing on improving electrostatic precipitator (ESP) systems and fly ash handling. These measures include upgrading existing ESPs, enhancing fly ash evacuation systems, and securing higher-grade coal.

The APPCB conducted inspections in November 2024 and a task force committee reviewed the situation, recommending a comprehensive plan of action from NTTPS within two weeks, with budgetary estimates for rectifying violations within three months. The NGT has requested a further action report by March 5, 2025. The matter is ongoing.

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