Why in news?
A study by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), released on 27 February 2026, reveals that India still lacks national standards for sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions from steel‑making operations such as sinter plants and mill stacks. The report focuses on the Bokaro Steel Plant in Jharkhand, finding that its emissions contribute to low birthweight and preterm births in nearby communities and impose economic costs of about US$80 million annually. CREA warns that India’s expanding steel industry must adopt stricter pollution controls to protect public health and the environment.
Background on sulphur dioxide
Sulphur dioxide is a colourless gas with a sharp, irritating smell. It is produced when fossil fuels containing sulphur are burned and during industrial processes such as smelting or paper pulping. At high concentrations SO2 can irritate the eyes and respiratory system, trigger asthma and contribute to cardiovascular problems. In the atmosphere, it reacts to form sulphate aerosols that reduce visibility and acid rain that harms vegetation, soils and aquatic ecosystems. Natural sources include volcanic eruptions, but human activities are the dominant source.
Findings of the CREA report
- Health impacts: Emissions from the Bokaro plant were linked to approximately 270 low‑birthweight babies, 280 preterm births and dozens of new cases of child asthma each year. In adults, the emissions contributed to around 170 premature deaths and nearly 300 asthma‑related emergency visits annually. The report highlights that children are particularly sensitive to air pollution.
- Economic costs: Health problems caused by pollution lead to lost productivity and health‑care expenses. CREA estimates an annual economic burden of nearly US$80 million (about ₹640 crore) in the region around the plant.
- Regulatory gaps: Despite the steel industry being classified as highly polluting, India has no nationwide SO2 emission standards for steel plants. Only a few ducts at the Bokaro facility have efficient electrostatic precipitators; others use outdated dust collectors. Continuous emission monitoring systems mandated by the Central Pollution Control Board are poorly implemented.
- Broader relevance: The steel sector is expanding, with plans to increase capacity from 200 million to 300 million tonnes by 2030. Without stringent controls, SO2 and other pollutants will rise, posing risks to health and the economy. CREA emphasises the need for emission standards, public transparency and cleaner technologies.
Conclusion
Sulphur dioxide pollution from steel plants is a serious but solvable problem. Establishing national emission standards, upgrading pollution‑control equipment and enforcing continuous monitoring will protect communities and support sustainable industrial growth. The CREA report underscores that India does not need to follow a “pollute now, clean up later” path; with available technologies, greener steel production can begin today.
Source: Down To Earth / CREA report