Coal Power Plant NO₂ Emissions and Crop Yield Losses
Why in the news
A satellite-based study found that nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) from coal-fired power plants cuts yields by 5-10% in some Indian states.
Key facts
- NO₂ is phytotoxic, harming plant health and photosynthesis.
- Chhattisgarh: coal is behind 19% of NO₂ in the monsoon and 12.5% in winter.
- Uttar Pradesh: high NO₂, but not from coal.
- Tamil Nadu: lower NO₂ overall, largely from coal.
- West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh: abatement could raise yields 5-10%, above 10% in places.
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Annual gain, rice / wheat | $420 million / $400 million |
| Total annual impact | ₹7,000 crore (~$820 million) |
| Damage per GWh, wheat / rice | Up to $17,370 / $13,420 |
Way forward
- Fit pollution controls first at plants with the worst farm impact.
- Add agricultural impact assessments to energy policy.
Background
- Coal budget up 255% in Union Budget 2025-26; India 105th of 127 in Global Hunger Index 2024.