Supreme Court to hear Adani Port's plea against NGT penalty

The Supreme Court yesterday issued notice in an appeal filed by Adani Krishnapatnam Port Limited against the National Green Tribunal's order imposing a penalty on it for alleged environmental damage.

A bench of Justices PS Narasimha and AS Chandurkar refused to stay the NGT’s order without hearing the other side first. Notices have been issued to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) and others.

NGT had directed the APPCB to impose environmental compensation for the past violations as noted by the Joint Committee. APPCB was also directed to fix specific timelines for compliance of certain conditions and levy environmental compensation for any delay in compliance beyond the fixed deadlines.

The NGT had registered a suo motu case against Adani in 2023 after it was told that Adani Krishnapatnam Port which handles large coal cargo, and its operations, including the import, storage, and transportation of coal, result in significant dust pollution, was causing coal dust to drift into surrounding villages, leading to severe health issues for residents and the port had not taken necessary measures to mitigate this pollution.

It was also stated that the port management had consistently violated environmental regulations, including conditions outlined in its Environmental Clearance (EC) and other licenses, and continues to rely on private, illegal groundwater suppliers.

The matter will now be heard by Supreme Court on July 30th.

Case Title: M/S ADANI KRISHNAPATNAM PORT LIMITED vs. CENTRAL POLLUTION CONTROL BOARD & ORS.

Hearing Date: July 16, 2025

Bench: Justices PS Narasimha and AS Chandurkar