Environment Protection Act 1986 - Overview And FAQ

Background and Timeline

• In 1984, the Bhopal gas tragedy highlighted the need for comprehensive environmental legislation.
• On May 23, 1986, the Environment Protection Bill, 1986 was passed by Parliament.
• On November 19, 1986, the Environment Protection Act, 1986 came into force.

Structure

The EPA comprises 4 chapters and 26 sections. The outline of the Act is as follows:

Key Objectives and Provisions

The EPA aims to protect and improve the environment and control pollution. Key provisions include:

• Central government powers: Authorizes the central government to set standards, regulate industries, and protect ecologically sensitive areas.
• Pollution control: Establishes mechanisms to prevent and control environmental pollution, including emissions and hazardous waste.
• Key provisions:
  • Environmental standards: Section 3 empowers the government to set standards for emissions and discharges.
  • Regulation of activities: Restricts activities harmful to the environment, including handling hazardous substances (Section 6).
  • Penalties: Section 15 imposes imprisonment up to 5 years, fines up to ₹1 lakh, or both for violations.
  • Environmental laboratories: Section 12 allows the establishment of labs to monitor environmental quality.

Implementation

• The EPA came into effect on November 19, 1986.
• The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change oversees implementation, with powers delegated to state governments and pollution control boards.
• Central and State Pollution Control Boards enforce standards and monitor compliance.

Key Considerations

• Addresses environmental challenges like pollution, deforestation, and industrial emissions.
• Empowers citizens to file complaints against environmental violations.
• The EPA, 1986, fosters sustainable development and environmental accountability.