NGT warns southern states of fines if clean air funds not utilised: Report
Karnataka received Rs 597.54 crore between 2019-20 and 2023-24. Bengaluru alone got Rs 541.1 crore, but had used only 13 per cent by October 2024
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has reportedly warned all six southern states—Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Puducherry—that they could face fines if they failed to fully and effectively utilise funds allocated under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).
The tribunal's South Zone Bench in Chennai asked the states to ensure “strict and time-bound implementation” of their State Action Plans (SAP) under NCAP, according to a report in The Hindu on Saturday (May 2).
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The order highlights chronic under-utilisation of clean air funds and disproportionate spending, putting the spotlight on air pollution governance in South India.
Background of the case
The Bench reportedly delivered its order on April 28, disposing of three linked matters.
The proceedings originated from a 2021 petition by Chennai-based researcher Dharmesh Shah, alleging failure by the Ministry of Environment, CPCB, and southern States to prepare and implement SAPs under NCAP.
Two suo motu cases were also tagged: one citing Karnataka’s poor fund utilisation, and another based on Greenpeace research showing rising pollution in Bengaluru and other southern cities.
Key findings
Karnataka received Rs 597.54 crore between 2019-20 and 2023-24. Bengaluru alone got Rs 541.1 crore, but had used only 13 per cent by October 2024, the report said.
By September 2025, 76 per cent of total funds released to southern states had been utilised, but the tribunal noted skewed spending patterns.
Disproportionate allocation
As much as 86 per cent of funds reportedly went to road dust control.
Only 6.6 per cent targeted vehicular emissions and 4.1 per cent biomass burning.
The tribunal called this “irrational” and demanded rationalisation.