Environmental compensation sought for red‑category dye units in Gurgaon and beyond

In a recent hearing, the National Green Tribunal highlighted the escalating environmental threat posed by red‑category dyeing units in Haryana. Justice Prakash Srivastava’s bench, which included environmental experts Dr. A. Senthil Vel and Dr. Afrooz Ahmed, reviewed two cases where such units allegedly discharged untreated waste into the Najafgarh drain despite closure directives.

The Haryana State Pollution Control Board’s status report details ongoing enforcement in Faridabad, Gurgaon, Sonipat and Bahadurgarh. In Gurgaon, many facilities operate without valid licences; several have been dismantled or had their power connections severed. Bahadurgarh’s jean‑washing plants have been sealed and equipment removed, with electricity permanently cut.

A critical component of the tribunal’s order is the calculation of environmental compensation. Penalties are being set between ₹3.90 lakh and ₹73.60 lakh, reflecting the severity of pollution and the costs of remediation. Legal action against the owners and managers of these units is also proceeding.

Sonipat’s findings reveal five sealed washing units and a recommendation to shut down an additional plant. HSPCB’s legal counsel affirmed that a second, more exhaustive identification drive will be launched to root out remaining illegal operations.

The NGT has demanded that HSPCB submit a fresh, detailed report on the actions taken within eight weeks. The next scheduled hearing to review compliance will take place on 26 February 2027.