The Supreme Court (SC) has sought a response from the Union Government on a plea seeking the shifting of coal-fired units out of the national capital. The petition has raised concerns about air quality and public health linked to the operation of these installations within the city. The court asked the central authority to address the legal and administrative basis for allowing such units to continue in an urban setting.

The bench has requested a detailed explanation of the feasibility of relocation, including the operational, logistical and environmental implications of moving generation capacity. It has noted the need to reconcile environmental standards with energy security and to identify alternatives for affected power supply. The court also signalled that any plan must consider compliance with statutory pollution norms and safeguards for communities affected by both continued operation and relocation.

Officials and stakeholders are expected to outline timelines, estimated costs and measures to limit disruption to consumers and industries dependent on the units. The Union Government has been asked to indicate whether arrangements for alternate sites or compensatory measures are in place and how regulatory oversight will be enforced during any transition. The plea has prompted the judiciary to scrutinise the manner in which administrative decisions have balanced economic and health considerations.

The matter will be listed for further hearing after the government files its reply, and the court will thereafter determine appropriate directions. Observers expect the proceedings to examine the roles of urban planning authorities and pollution control agencies in preventing recurrence of similar situations. The final outcome will aim to protect public health while ensuring continuity of essential public services.