Parliament has passed the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024 with the Lok Sabha approving it on Thursday. Rajya Sabha has already passed the legislation. The Bill seeks to amend the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, of 1974.
The Bill seeks to amend the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, of 1974. The Act establishes the central and state pollution control boards to prevent and control water pollution. The Bill decriminalizes several violations and imposes penalties. It will initially apply to Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and the Union Territories.
One key amendment pertains to the appointment of the chairman of State Pollution Control Boards, nominated by the respective State governments. Under the Bill’s provisions, the central government will prescribe the nomination process and the chairman’s terms and conditions of service. Additionally, the Bill introduces penalties ranging from Rs.10000 to 15 lakh rupees for violations related to discharging polluting matter into water bodies.
During the debate on the Bill, Union Minister for Environment, Bhupender Yadav emphasized the government’s commitment to the Namami Gange Project. He urged all members to support this initiative and turn it into a nationwide movement. Minister Yadav also assured the Parliament that the guidelines issued under the amended legislation would respect the autonomy of State Pollution Control Boards and would be transparent, aiming to facilitate both the quality of life and business operations.
Furthermore, Minister Yadav stressed the importance of environmental awareness and responsible utilization of natural resources over the reliance on artificial intelligence. He highlighted significant initiatives like the identification of over one lakh water bodies under the Amrit Sarovar scheme and the inclusion of 75 lakes in Ramsar sites.
In his opening remarks, Minister Bhupender Yadav stated that the amendments aim to strike a balance between industrial development and environmental protection.