ACT 1974 Water Prevention And
Control Of Pollution
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Introduction to the Water (Prevention and
Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
The Act was enacted by the Indian
Parliament to provide for the
prevention and control of water
pollution.
It aims to maintain or restore the
wholesomeness of water for various
purposes.
The Act establishes authorities
responsible for implementing and
enforcing its provisions.
Scope and Application of the Act
The Act applies to all streams, inland
waters, and subsoil water in India.
It also covers coastal waters up to the
territorial limit.
The Act applies to all persons and
industries discharging pollutants into
water bodies.
Prohibition of Discharge of Pollutants
The Act prohibits the discharge of
pollutants or effluents into water
bodies without proper treatment.
Industries must obtain consent from
the pollution control boards before
discharging effluents.
Violators of the Act can face penalties,
including fines and imprisonment.
Powers of Central and State Pollution Control
Boards
The Act empowers the Central and
State Pollution Control Boards to
enforce its provisions.
These boards can inspect premises,
issue directions, and take samples for
analysis.
They can also set standards for
effluent discharge and monitor
compliance.
Water Quality Standards
The Act prescribes water quality
standards for various designated best
use categories.
These standards specify permissible
limits of various pollutants in water
bodies.
Monitoring and compliance with these
standards are crucial for preventing
water pollution.
Monitoring and Enforcement Mechanisms
The Act requires regular monitoring of
water quality by pollution control
boards.
Non-compliance with standards can
result in the closure of industries or
imposition of penalties.
Public participation and awareness are
essential for effective enforcement of
the Act.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
The Act mandates the conduct of EIA
for industries likely to have a
significant impact on water bodies.
EIA helps in assessing the potential
environmental consequences of
industrial activities.
It ensures that appropriate mitigation
measures are taken to prevent
pollution.
Role of Judiciary in Enforcement
The judiciary plays a crucial role in
interpreting and enforcing the
provisions of the Act.
Courts can intervene to ensure
compliance with the Act and protect
water bodies.
Judicial activism has been
instrumental in holding polluters
accountable.
Challenges and Future Directions
Rapid industrialization and
urbanization pose significant
challenges to water pollution control.
Technological advancements and
stricter enforcement are needed to
address these challenges.
Public awareness and participation are
essential for sustainable water
management.
Conclusion
The Water (Prevention and Control of
Pollution) Act, 1974 is a crucial
legislation for safeguarding water
resources.
Effective implementation of the Act is
essential for ensuring clean and
sustainable water bodies.
Collective efforts from the
government, industries, and the public
are necessary to prevent water
pollution.
References
"The Water (Prevention and Control of
Pollution) Act, 1974." Ministry of
Environment, Forest and Climate
Change, Government of India.
"Water (Prevention and Control of
Pollution) Act, 1974." Central Pollution
Control Board, Ministry of
Environment, Forest and Climate
Change, Government of India.
"Environmental Laws: Water
(Prevention and Control of Pollution)
Act, 1974." Legal Service India.
