Previous Year Question

The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 is a major environmental law enacted in India for the prevention and control of water pollution. It was enacted on 23 March 1974. Its objective is to protect rivers, lakes, ponds, and other water sources from pollution and to maintain or restore the cleanliness and quality of water. It is designated as Act No. 6 of 1974.

The Act provided for the establishment of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs). The CPCB was constituted in September 1974. The Central Board promotes national-level coordination, technical guidance, and improvements in water quality related to water pollution control. State Pollution Control Boards are responsible for monitoring pollution, controlling industrial effluents, and ensuring compliance with prescribed standards within their respective states.

Section 24 of the Water Act prohibits the discharge of polluting or harmful substances into streams, wells, and other specified places according to prescribed standards. Section 25 requires Prior Consent from the State Pollution Control Board for new industries, processes, or waste disposal systems likely to discharge Sewage or Trade Effluent. These provisions aim to control pollution at its source and protect water bodies from harmful waste.

Other important environmental laws associated with different years include the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977, the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The Water Cess Act of 1977 was enacted to levy a cess on water consumed by certain industries and local authorities and to increase the resources of pollution control boards.