Salient Features of the Air Pollution Act 1981- The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 is an important legislation enacted by the Government of India to combat air pollution and protect the environment and public health. Here are some salient features of the Air Pollution Act, 1981:
Salient Features of the Air Pollution Act 1981
Objective: The primary objective of the Act is to prevent, control, and abate air pollution, and to establish a framework for the preservation of the quality of air.
Regulatory Authority: The Act establishes the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) at the national level and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) at the state level as the regulatory authorities responsible for implementing and enforcing the provisions of the Act.
Ambit of Control: The Act covers a wide range of air pollutants, including smoke, dust, soot, grit, gases, fumes, and odorous substances that are likely to cause air pollution and harm human health.
Pollution Control Measures: The Act empowers the regulatory authorities to prescribe and enforce standards for emissions from industrial plants, vehicles, and other sources of air pollution. It provides for the installation of pollution control equipment, monitoring systems, and other measures to control and reduce air pollution.
Emission Standards: The Act authorizes the regulatory authorities to specify emission standards for different industries and sources of air pollution. These standards define the maximum permissible limits of pollutants that can be emitted into the air.
Prohibition and Regulation: The Act grants the regulatory authorities the power to prohibit or regulate the use of certain fuels, raw materials, and manufacturing processes that may lead to air pollution. It also enables them to regulate the location and operation of industries to minimize their impact on air quality.
Inspection and Monitoring: The Act allows the regulatory authorities to conduct inspections and carry out air quality monitoring to ensure compliance with the prescribed standards. It provides for the establishment of air pollution monitoring stations and the collection of air quality data.
The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
Penalties and Offenses: The Act outlines penalties and punishments for non-compliance with its provisions. It prescribes fines and imprisonment for offenses such as the contravention of emission standards, failure to comply with pollution control measures, and obstruction of inspectors.
Public Participation: The Act emphasizes public participation and awareness in matters concerning air pollution. It allows individuals and organizations to file complaints, petitions, or appeals with the regulatory authorities regarding violations or concerns related to air pollution.
Collaboration and Cooperation: The Act encourages collaboration and cooperation between the central and state governments, regulatory authorities, industries, and the public to effectively address air pollution issues. It enables the authorities to seek assistance from experts, conduct research, and disseminate information and educational materials.
It’s important to note that while the information provided is based on the Air Pollution Act, 1981 in India, air pollution regulations and legislation may vary in different countries and regions.