Question : Implementation of Environmental Laws

(a) whether despite a number of prevailing Acts intended to protect India''s waterways, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards have not ensured their effective implementation and if so, the reasons therefor;
(b) whether a more ecologically sound approach towards environmental protection of flows of rivers is necessary;
(c) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken by the Government in this regard; and
(d) whether accountability norms for official agencies are necessary for the restoration of many rivers that are dying due to pollution and if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE

(SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE)

(a) to (d) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) are implementing the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 which also covers restoration of water quality of the rivers. The approaches adopted for river cleaning program are based on interception, diversion and treatment of sewage. Recently basin-wise approach for river cleaning has been adopted, which inter-alia includes adopting in-situ sewage treatment systems and devising new standards for sewage treatment plants. CPCB has issued directions for implementation of specific action plans with respect to sugar, textiles, distilleries, pulp & paper and tanneries in Ganga basin. Besides, water polluting industries have been directed to install twenty four hours online effluent monitoring devices to improve monitoring mechanism. The concept of environmental flow is followed for sustenance of aquatic life and the needs of users at downstream. Based on this, the Expert Appraisal Committee at the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change considers for site specific study for establishing proper environmental flow to be maintained during monsoon, non-monsoon and lean months. The SPCBs have been asked to prepare restoration plans for identified polluted river stretches. CPCB has also directed the municipal bodies for setting up of sewage treatment plants to prevent pollution of rivers due to disposal of untreated sewage into the rivers.

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