• UGI USER
  • Feb 08, 2024
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RAJYA SABHA PASSES WATER ACT AMENDMENT BILL

Why in the News?

  • The Rajya Sabha approved the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill.
  • The Bill aims to decriminalize minor offences related to water pollution and exempt certain industrial plants from statutory restrictions.
Source: Slide Player

Key Points of the Amendment:

Decriminalization of Minor Offences:

  • The amendment rationalizes criminal provisions to prevent imprisonment for minor defaults.
  • It ensures penalties align with the seriousness of the offence, promoting ease of living and business.

 Exemption for Industrial Plants:

  • The central government gains authority to exempt certain industrial plants from restrictions on new outlets and discharges.
  • This reduces surveillance duplication and regulatory burdens on agencies.

Central Government Empowerment:

  • The central government will prescribe chairperson nomination procedures for State Pollution Control Boards.
  • It can issue guidelines on consent for industries and disposal systems to ensure fair appointments and regulatory consistency.
About Central Pollution Control Boards (CPCB)

·   Established in September 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, CPCB is a statutory organization.

·   It holds powers and functions under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

·   CPCB operates as a field formation and provides technical services to the Ministry of Environment and Forests under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

·   Its principal functions are outlined in both Acts.