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Salient Features of Epa Act

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379 views1 page

Salient Features of Epa Act

Notes on

Uploaded by

reshona17
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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SALIENT FEATURES OF EPA ACT

The Environment Protection Act of 1986 is a comprehensive piece of legislation in India


aimed at ensuring environmental conservation and protection. The roots of the enactment of
the EPA lies in the Stockholm Conference in which India participated, to take appropriate
steps for the improvement of the human environment. The EPA Act was enacted
under Article 253 of the Indian Constitution which provides for the enactment of legislation
for giving effect to international agreements.

Here are some salient features of the Act:


Comprehensive Coverage: It provides a broad framework for the protection and
improvement of the environment, including air, water, soil, and other natural resources.
Central Authority: The Act empowers the central government to establish authorities for
environmental management, such as the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State
Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs).
Regulations and Standards: It enables the government to set standards for the quality of air,
water, and soil, as well as for the discharge of pollutants.
Power to Control and Prevent Pollution: The Act grants the central government the
authority to issue directives for the prevention, control, and reduction of pollution.
Hazardous Substances: The Act gives the government the power to regulate and manage
hazardous substances. It includes provisions for handling, transportation, and disposal of
hazardous substances to prevent environmental and health hazards.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): It mandates an assessment of potential
environmental impacts for various projects and activities before they are approved or
undertaken.
Penalties and Enforcement: The Act provides for penalties and legal action against
individuals or entities that violate its provisions or cause environmental harm.
Public Participation: The Act emphasizes public participation in environmental protection.
It allows citizens to file complaints and seek legal remedies in case of environmental
violations.
Environmental Clearance: Empowers the central government to regulate activities
impacting the environment, requiring clearance for potentially polluting projects.
Penalties for Violators: Imprisonment up to 5 years, fine up to Rs 1,00,000, or both.
Additional fine of up to Rs 5,000 per day for persistent violation. Imprisonment up to seven
years for continued non-compliance.
These features collectively aim to safeguard and improve environmental quality, ensuring
sustainable development and a healthier ecosystem.

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