Pollution Prevention Weakened by New Law, Experts Warn

India's approach to environmental protection has shifted with the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023, which decriminalizes environment and pollution laws. This change replaces imprisonment for violations under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, with enhanced fines. The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Act, 2024, mirrors these provisions.

However, these reforms face criticism for potentially encouraging pollution rather than preventing it. Critics argue that acting only after environmental damage has occurred, coupled with understaffed pollution control boards and incomplete reforms, weakens the principle of prevention. Regulations that exempt individual industries from separate clearances, without clear verification, further exacerbate concerns about compliance and source-level pollution management.

Experts emphasize that achieving zero pollution requires a return to preventive, source-level management. This includes ensuring industries install fully functional pollution control systems before operating, implementing zero liquid discharge, and treating wastewater for reuse. Regular monitoring of air and water quality, along with scientific solid waste disposal and energy generation from waste, are also crucial steps.

To truly foster a healthy environment, the focus must shift back to robust enforcement and proactive measures. This involves strengthening self-regulation by industries, enhancing the participation of local bodies and gram panchayats, filling vacancies within pollution control boards, and implementing transparent online monitoring systems for polluting parameters. Prioritizing citizens' right to clean air and water is paramount, even amidst rapid economic growth.