The Kerala State Pollution Control Board (PCB) has not complied with a February 19, 2026, directive from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to determine environmental compensation from entities polluting the Kadambrayar river in Ernakulam. The NGT's Southern Bench, comprising Judicial Member Pushpa Sathyanarayana and Expert Member Prashant Gargava, ordered the PCB to assess penalties based on the 'polluter pays principle' and to verify action taken by local authorities.

Inspections by the Ernakulam district office of the PCB identified industrial units, apartment complexes, hotels, and commercial establishments near the riverbanks as sources of untreated wastewater discharge. Most lacked proper wastewater treatment facilities. The PCB is required to calculate compensation based on the volume of waste discharged, but senior officials confirmed the assessment remains pending.

The Local Self-Government Department (LSGD) has directed civic bodies including Kochi Corporation, Thrikkakara municipality, and several grama panchayats to impose penalties and pursue legal action against offenders. These bodies have begun remedial measures under river restoration action plans.

The NGT has scheduled the next compliance hearing for June 22, 2026, after noting the PCB's failure to implement its February order. The tribunal will review the board's progress on fixing compensation and enforcing corrective measures.