• UGI USER
  • Feb 23, 2024
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SUPREME COURT SAYS LAWS HAVE TEETH BUT POLLUTION CONTROL BOARDS ARE SLACK

Why in the news?

The Supreme Court criticized the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) and the district administration for their alleged slackness in addressing pollution issues related to the Vedanta plant.

source:mint

Legal Obligations and Closure Controversy:

  • Discussions arose over Vedanta’s appeal to reopen the plant, shut down in 2018 due to unspecified violations, prompting reflections on the necessity for clearer legal compliance measures.
  • Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud criticized the lack of effective implementation of anti-pollution laws, citing issues such as insufficient staff and motivation within the pollution control boards.
Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB):

●  Established in 1974 under Water and Air Acts.

●  Functions include water and air pollution control, serving under the Ministry of Environment.

State Pollution Control Board (SPCB):

●  State-level bodies implementing environmental laws.

●  Supplement CPCB’s efforts within state jurisdictions.

Pollution Control Committees (PCC):

●  Similar to SPCB but operate in Union territories.

●  Responsible for enforcing environmental regulations in their respective territories.