October 6, 2026: The case involved an application by the Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) seeking reliefs related to the supply of natural gas to industries in Agra. The Supreme Court had previously directed GAIL to commence gas supply to specified industries by June 1997, with a target for completion by December 1998. However, by the end of 1998, only 115 out of 168 consumers had contacted GAIL for gas supply, with significant non-compliance from 79 cupola based iron foundries.

The court noted that these industries were awaiting technology from the National Metallurgical Laboratory (NML) for conversion to natural gas, which was still under development. The court issued notices to these industries to explain their non-compliance and considered the environmental implications of continued coal/coke usage. The court found that the delay in conversion posed a grave concern for air quality in the Taj Trapezium area.

Ultimately, the court mandated the closure of non-compliant industries and set a deadline for compliance, emphasizing the urgency of addressing pollution. The court also addressed issues related to Zones II and III, directing the Union of India to examine expert reports regarding the laying of gas pipelines. The decision underscored the balance between industrial operations and environmental protection.

(Source: Law text)