Parliament passes Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024

In a significant move to bolster environmental protection, the Lok Sabha, on February 8th, 2024, passed the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill of 2024. This legislative step is aimed at enhancing penalties and tightening regulations concerning water pollution, marking a pivotal shift in India's approach to environmental stewardship.

Initially introduced in the Rajya Sabha on February 5th, 2024, the bill swiftly gained approval the following day, reflecting the urgency and consensus among lawmakers regarding the imperative to curb pollution. The amendment seeks to address the escalating concerns over pollution control by standardizing punishments for minor violations and systemic failures that pose significant environmental and health risks.

Overview of the Amendment Bill

A key feature of the bill is the empowerment of the Central government to oversee the appointment process of Chairpersons for State Pollution Control Boards. This move is designed to ensure a more unified and effective governance structure in the fight against pollution. Additionally, the bill introduces exemptions for certain industrial plants from specific regulations, while also laying out criteria for the approval, denial, and revocation of permissions for industrial activities.

In a notable shift towards a more lenient approach for minor offenses, the bill proposes the decriminalization of certain acts of water pollution, replacing imprisonment with monetary fines. These fines are to be determined by appointed officers who will assess the fairness and reasonableness of the penalty based on the facts of each case.

The legislation imposes stringent penalties for non-compliance with directives related to the establishment of new outlets and the management of sewage discharge and disposal. Fines collected from these penalties are earmarked for a fund established under the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986, dedicated to the financial support of environmental protection efforts.

The passage of this bill underscores the government's commitment to robust environmental governance and its intention to strike a balance between regulatory measures and the need for sustainable industrial growth. By focusing on sustainable development and the prudent use of water resources, the amendment aims to mitigate pollution's impact on public health and the environment.

In conclusion, the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill of 2024 represents a critical stride towards reconciling industrial development with environmental preservation. It embodies a comprehensive approach to pollution control, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding water resources and promoting their judicious utilization for the welfare of the nation and its citizens.