Government Streamlines Environmental Clearances, Exempts Certain Industries from Consent to Establish
The Central Government has amended the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, to exempt certain categories of industries from obtaining consents.
New Air And Water Pollution Consent Guidelines Released
These guidelines outline the procedures and criteria for obtaining, renewing, and potentially losing consent to establish or operate industrial plants that may cause air and water pollution. These guidelines aim to streamline the consent process while ensuring environmental protection.
India Streamlines Environmental Clearances to Boost Ease of Doing Business
To reduce redundancy and streamline approvals, the Central Government has amended Section 21 of the Air Act, 1981, and Section 25 of the Water Act, 1974. Notifications dated November 12, 2024 have been issued to exempt certain categories of industries from obtaining consents. Specifically, “white” category industries are completely exempted from the consent mechanism, while other categories are exempted from CTE if the project has already received environmental clearance under the Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986.
New Rules for Water Pollution Cases
The rules provide that complaints can be filed electronically, by speed post, or in person. Adjudicating officers are required to initiate inquiries within 30 days of receiving a complaint. The entire inquiry process, including evidence gathering and decision-making, must be completed within six months.
