Environmental Policies in India: Landmark Case Laws and Judicial Activism (Part III)

 Environmental Policies in India: Landmark Case Laws and Judicial Activism (Part III)

 Author: Chandan Sha

Introduction

While laws and policies form the foundation of environmental governance, the Indian Judiciary has played a major role in filling the gaps where legislation was silent or enforcement was weak. Through Public Interest Litigations (PILs) and progressive interpretations of constitutional provisions, Indian courts have shaped the course of environmental protection in the country. In this final part of the series, we highlight key case laws that transformed India’s environmental policies and ensured accountability.

 Role of the Judiciary in Environmental Protection

Indian courts have relied heavily on:

• Article 21 (Right to Life)
• Article 48-A (Protection of Environment – DPSP)
• Article 51-A(g) (Fundamental Duty to protect environment)

Environmental issues have been treated as part of the Right to Life, expanding the meaning of a dignified life to include clean air, water, and a healthy ecosystem.

 Key Landmark Judgments

1. Rural Litigation and Entitlement Kendra v. State of Uttar Pradesh (1985)

Facts: The case involved illegal limestone mining in the Mussoorie hills which caused deforestation and water pollution.

Held: The Supreme Court ordered the closure of mines to protect the environment. It introduced the principle of sustainable development and stated that economic interests must not override environmental protection.

2. M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (Oleum Gas Leak Case) (1987)

Facts: Oleum gas leaked from a fertilizer plant in Delhi, causing harm to people and the environment.

Held: The SC evolved the ‘Absolute Liability’ principle. If an industry is engaged in a hazardous activity, it is completely liable for any damage, without exceptions.

3. M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (Ganga Pollution Case) (1988)

Facts: Several industries were polluting the Ganga river.

Held: The court directed industries to install effluent treatment plants (ETPs) and shut down non-compliant units. This case pushed stricter environmental monitoring by pollution control boards.

4. Indian Council for Enviro-Legal Action v. Union of India (1996)

Facts: Illegal chemical industries caused groundwater pollution in a village in Rajasthan.

Held: The SC ordered closure and clean-up and applied the Polluter Pays Principle. This landmark case emphasized that polluters must bear the cost of environmental damage.

5. Vellore Citizens’ Welfare Forum v. Union of India (1996)

Facts: Leather industries in Tamil Nadu discharged toxic waste into water bodies.

Held: Introduced the Precautionary Principle and reiterated Polluter Pays Principle. Directed industries to set up treatment plants and compensate for damage.

6. A.P. Pollution Control Board v. Prof. M.V. Nayudu (1999)

Held: Emphasized the need for scientific expertise in environmental cases. Recognized that precaution is better than cure when scientific uncertainty exists. Courts must act cautiously when environmental damage is possible.

7. T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad v. Union of India (Ongoing since

Facts: PIL on illegal deforestation and misuse of forest land.

Held: SC redefined the term “forest” and placed all forest lands under protection, even if not officially recorded as forests. This case led to the expansion of forest conservation measures and checks on illegal mining and deforestation.

8. Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar (1991)

Citation: AIR 1991 SC 420

Held: Recognized the right to clean water and air as a fundamental right under Article 21. Strengthened the idea that environmental quality directly affects the quality of life.

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9. Municipal Council, Ratlam v. Vardhichand (1980)

Citation: AIR 1980 SC 1622

Held: Municipal authorities were ordered to clean open drains and prevent environmental harm. The case reinforced the duty of public authorities to maintain public hygiene and sanitation.

 Principles Evolved Through Case Laws

These judgments established several important doctrines:

Legal Principle	Explanation
Absolute Liability	No exceptions for hazardous industries—complete liability for damage.
Polluter Pays Principle	Polluters must pay for restoration and compensation.
Precautionary Principle	Act before damage occurs—don't wait for proof.
Sustainable Development	Balance between development and environmental protection.
Intergenerational Equity	Preserve environment for future generations.
Public Trust Doctrine	Natural resources are held by the government in trust for the people.

 Impact on Environmental Policy

Thanks to these judgments:

• Environmental clearance procedures became stricter.
• Pollution control laws were more effectively enforced.
• Environmental education was introduced in school curricula.
• The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was established in 2010 to speed up environmental justice.
• The government now conducts Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) before approving major projects.
• The judiciary ensured accountability of industries and public bodies in environmental matters.

 Conclusion

India's environmental journey is not just shaped by policies and plans, but also by a proactive judiciary. These landmark judgments gave real meaning to the right to life under Article 21 by protecting the environment as an essential part of human existence. Courts have not only interpreted the law—they’ve filled policy gaps, enforced accountability, and laid down foundational principles for a greener India.

As citizens, understanding these legal milestones is key to becoming active protectors of our environment.

Endnote :

1. Rural Litigation and Entitlement Kendra v. State of U.P., AIR 1985 SC 652.
2. M.C. Mehta v. Union of India, AIR 1987 SC 965.
3. Vellore Citizens’ Welfare Forum v. Union of India, AIR 1996 SC 2715.
4. A.P. Pollution Control Board v. Prof. M.V. Nayudu, AIR 1999 SC 812.
5. T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad v. Union of India, AIR 1997 SC 1228.

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Environmental Policies in India: From the Past to the Present

Understanding Environmental Policies in India: From the Past to the Present

Author: Chandan Sha

Introduction

Environmental policies are the backbone of any country's effort to protect nature and promote sustainability. These rules and guidelines aim to balance the need for development with the responsibility of preserving our natural environment. In this blog, we’ll explore how India’s environmental policies have evolved—before and after the historic 1972 Stockholm Conference—and how they continue to shape the nation’s green future.

What Are Environmental Policies?

Environmental policies are government rules and strategies aimed at keeping our air, water, and land clean. They also promote the use of renewable energy, manage waste, protect wildlife, and reduce pollution. These policies help countries grow economically without harming the environment too much.

 How Do Environmental Policies Work?

Environmental policies function through clear rules for individuals and industries. Government bodies ensure these rules are followed through:

• Pollution checks and monitoring
• Penalties for breaking rules
• Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) for big projects
• Wildlife and forest conservation strategies
• Public awareness campaigns
• Collaboration with international organizations
• Continuous improvements and regular updates

 Environmental Efforts Before the 1972 Stockholm Conference

Before the world’s attention turned toward environmental issues in 1972, India had already taken a few steps:

• Indian Forest Act, 1927: Controlled deforestation and promoted forest protection.
• Wild Birds and Animals Protection Act, 1912: Protected wildlife and created sanctuaries.
• River Pollution Acts: Tackled industrial and domestic waste dumped in rivers.
• Industrial Disputes Act, 1947: Though a labour law, it touched on workers' health and safety, indirectly supporting environmental care.

Shift in Policy After the 1972 Stockholm Conference

The Stockholm Conference changed global environmental thinking. In India, it inspired stronger laws, new institutions, and wider public involvement.

National Environment Policy, 2006

India framed a detailed policy in 2006 to guide sustainable development. Based on Article 48-A (Directive Principles) and Article 51-A(g) (Fundamental Duties) of the Constitution, it calls on the government and citizens alike to protect nature.

 Key Goals of the Policy:

• Conserve ecosystems and natural resources.
• Include environmental concerns in all government planning.
• Promote smart use of energy and reduce waste.
• Spread environmental awareness through education.
• Balance current needs with future sustainability.
• Involve communities, businesses, and the government.

 India’s Five-Year Plans and Environmental Growth

5th Five Year Plan (1974–79):

• Recognized the need for environment-focused planning.

6th Five Year Plan (1980–85):

• Established the Department of Environment, which later became part of the Ministry of Environment and Forests.

 Tiwari Committee Recommendations (1980)

This committee made key suggestions that shaped modern environmental governance:

• Introduce a national environmental policy.
• Combine economic development with environmental care.
• Follow the “polluter pays” rule.
• Promote public involvement and education.
• Give local governments more powers to address environmental problems.
• Encourage international cooperation and adopt global practices.

Why Environmental Policies Matter

Having strong environmental policies brings many benefits:

• Ensures companies follow the law.
• Teaches employees to act responsibly.
• Saves money by cutting waste.
• Reduces chances of accidents and legal issues.
• Protects energy and raw materials.
• Improves efficiency and public image.
• Attracts investors and builds trust with customers.

 Real Impact of Environmental Policies

Good policies deliver real change. For example:

• In British Columbia (Canada), a 2012 gas tax led to a 11–17% drop in fuel use.
• China uses a mix of guidelines, laws, and campaigns to drive innovation and eco-friendly practices.
• Well-planned policies help people make greener choices while boosting national progress.

Conclusion

India’s journey with environmental policies reflects a growing commitment to protecting nature. From early forest laws to modern-day national strategies, the country has come a long way. Still, climate change and pollution remain major threats. That’s why updating and enforcing environmental policies is more important than ever—for a cleaner, greener tomorrow.

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Study on Law Hills is a legal blog that simplifies Indian law for students and professionals. From Constitution to Criminal Law, it offers:

• 📚 Law notes for exams
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• 🧾 Case commentaries & updates
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The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 – Preamble, Objectives, Definitions, Powers of Central Government, and Measures for Prevention and Control of Pollution

 The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 – Preamble, Objectives, Definitions, Powers of Central Government, and Measures for Prevention and Control of Pollution

 Introduction

Environmental protection became a serious concern in India after the tragic Bhopal Gas Tragedy in 1984, which claimed thousands of lives due to the leakage of toxic gas from a pesticide plant. To address such environmental risks, the Government of India enacted The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (EPA) as an umbrella legislation for safeguarding the environment.

Preamble of the Act

The Preamble of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 declares:

“An Act to provide for the protection and improvement of environment and for matters connected therewith.”

This shows that the main focus of the Act is not just preventing environmental harm but also actively improving the quality of the environment.

Objectives of the Act

The key objectives of the Environment Protection Act are:

1. To implement decisions made at the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment (Stockholm, 1972).

2. To protect and improve the environment (air, water, land).

3. To control and reduce environmental pollution.

4. To empower the Central Government to take strict action against polluters.

5. To fill the gaps left by earlier laws like the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

Definitions (Section 2)

Section 2 of the Act defines important terms:

• Environment [Sec. 2(a)]: Includes water, air, land, and the inter-relationships between human beings, other living creatures, plants, micro-organisms, and property.

• Environmental pollutant [Sec. 2(b)]: Any solid, liquid or gaseous substance present in such concentration as may be injurious to the environment.

• Environmental pollution [Sec. 2(c)]: The presence of pollutants in the environment.

• Hazardous substance [Sec. 2(e)]: Any substance or preparation which may cause harm to human beings, animals, or plants due to its chemical or physico-chemical properties.

  Powers of the Central Government (Sections 3–6)

The Act gives wide powers to the Central Government to take steps for environmental protection. These powers include:

🔹 Section 3 – Power to Take Measures

Section 3 of the Act provides broad powers to the Central Government for environmental protection. These powers include:

The Central Government can:

• Planning and executing national programs for pollution control.

• Set environmental standards for air, water, and soil quality.

• Restrict certain industries or activities in specific areas.

• Coordinate with state governments and international bodies.

• Establishing authorities to prevent and control pollution.

🔹 Section 5 – Power to Issue Directions

The Central Government can issue binding directions to:

• Close or regulate any industry.

• Stop the supply of electricity or water to a polluting unit.

🔹 Section 6 – Rules to Regulate Environmental Pollution

It can make rules for:

• Handling of hazardous substances.

• Setting emission and discharge standards.

• Waste management and chemical safety.

Case Law:
In M.C. Mehta v. Union of India, AIR 1988 SC 1037, the Supreme Court upheld the power of the Central Government under this Act to take strict action against polluting industries near the Ganga River.

In  Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union of India, (1996) the Supreme Court recognized the powers of the central government under the EPA to enforce environmental standards and implement the Precautionary Principle and Polluter Pays Principle.

Prevention, Control, and Abatement of Environmental Pollution

The Act focuses on preventing pollution before it happens and controlling it when it occurs. Here's how:

🔹 Section 7 – No Person Shall Pollute

No individual or organization is allowed to release environmental pollutants beyond the prescribed limits.

🔹 Section 8 – Handling of Hazardous Substances

Anyone who handles hazardous chemicals must follow safety procedures to prevent accidents.

🔹 Section 9 – Accidents Reporting

If any accidental discharge of a pollutant happens, it must be immediately reported to the authorities, and necessary steps must be taken to reduce the harm.

🔹 Section 10 – Inspection

Government officers can enter, inspect, and collect samples from any site suspected of pollution.

🔹 Section 11 – Sampling and Testing

Samples of air, water, or soil can be collected and tested in official laboratories to check pollution levels.

Case Law:
In Indian Council for Enviro-Legal Action v. Union of India, AIR 1996 SC 1446, the court observed that under this Act, the government must ensure that polluters bear the cost of damage (Polluter Pays Principle).

Penal Provisions (Section 15–17)

If someone violates the Act:

• They can be punished with imprisonment up to 5 years and/or a fine up to ₹1,00,000.

• If the offence continues, additional daily fines may be imposed.

• If the pollution continues beyond one year, the punishment can extend up to 7 years.

• Companies, government departments, and even heads of departments can be held personally liable under Sections 16 and 17.

Significance of the Act

• It serves as a comprehensive umbrella law for environmental regulation.

• Empowers government authorities with flexible and broad powers.

• Acts as a basis for framing rules like EIA Notification, Hazardous Waste Rules, etc.

• Promotes public interest litigation for environmental causes.

Conclusion

The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 is a strong legal tool for India to fight pollution and protect the ecosystem. By empowering the Central Government and placing duties on industries and individuals, it ensures that the right to a clean and safe environment is preserved.

Laws like this must be strictly implemented and followed so that future generations inherit a greener, cleaner India.

References:

1. M.C. Mehta v. Union of India, AIR 1988 SC 1037.

2. Indian Council for Enviro-Legal Action v. Union of India, AIR 1996 SC 1446.

3. The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 – India Code

4. Shyam Divan & Armin Rosencranz, Environmental Law and Policy in India (Oxford University Press, 2nd ed. 2002).

5. Stockholm Declaration, 1972.

6. Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union of India, (1996) 5 SCC 647.

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🔖 Blog by Chandan Sha | For more legal insights, stay tuned to Study on Law Hills.

🔖 About Study on Law Hills

By Chandan Sha
One-stop blog for law notes, moot memorials & legal updates

Study on Law Hills is a legal blog that simplifies Indian law for students and professionals. From Constitution to Criminal Law, it offers:

• 📚 Law notes for exams
• ⚖️ Moot court memorials (Petitioner & Respondent)
• 🧾 Case commentaries & updates
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Public Trust Doctrine: Protecting Natural Resources for All

Public Trust Doctrine: Protecting Natural Resources for All

Author: Chandan Sha

 Introduction

The Public Trust Doctrine is a legal principle that says certain natural resources like air, water, forests, and seas are so important to all of us that the government must protect them for the benefit of the public. These resources are not owned by anyone privately but are held by the State in trust for future generations.

This principle ensures that natural resources are not over-exploited or sold off for private profits at the cost of public interest.

Origin of the Doctrine

The doctrine started in Roman law, where it was said that things like air, sea, and running water are common to all mankind. It was further developed in English common law and adopted in many countries, including India.

In India, the doctrine became a part of environmental jurisprudence through a landmark judgment by the Supreme Court in the 1990s.

Essential Features of the Doctrine

1. Trusteeship Role of the State – The State is not the absolute owner of natural resources but a trustee responsible for managing them in the best interest of the people.
2. Inalienability of Natural Resources – Public resources cannot be transferred or privatized for commercial exploitation at the cost of public interest.
3. Intergenerational Equity – The doctrine emphasizes sustainability and the duty to preserve resources for future generations.
4. Enforceability through Judiciary – Courts play a vital role in enforcing the doctrine against arbitrary State actions.

Importance of Public trust doctrine 

1. Prevent arbitrary allocation of public resources 

2. Imposed fiduciary duty upon State 

3. Protect common resources 

Constitutional Basis

Although the doctrine of public trust is not explicitly mentioned in the Indian Constitution, it finds implicit support in:

• Article 21: Right to life, expanded to include the right to a clean and healthy environment.
• Article 48A: Directive Principle directing the State to protect and improve the environment.
• Article 51A(g): Fundamental duty of every citizen to protect and improve the natural environment.

Statutory Support

Indian legislations like the Environment Protection Act, 1986, the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, and the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 reinforce the principles underlying the public trust doctrine. These laws mandate State responsibility in conserving resources and preventing their misuse.

Landmark Case

M.C. Mehta v. Kamal Nath (1997) 1 SCC 388

 Facts of the Case:

In this case, a private company had been allowed to construct a hotel on the banks of the Beas River in Himachal Pradesh. The company changed the natural course of the river to protect the hotel from floods, which damaged the river ecosystem. A renowned environmentalist, M.C. Mehta, filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) before the Supreme Court.

Supreme Court Judgment:

The Court held that the government had violated its duty as a trustee of natural resources by allowing a private party to tamper with the river. It ruled that:

“The State is the trustee of all natural resources which are by nature meant for public use and enjoyment. The State is under a legal duty to protect them.”

The Court applied the Public Trust Doctrine and said the environment cannot be privatized.

 Other Notable Cases

1. Fomento Resorts & Hotels Ltd. v. Minguel Martins (2009) 3 SCC 571

The Court held that beaches and coastal areas are public trust property, and they must be kept open for public access.

2. Centre for Environmental Law v. Union of India (2013) 8 SCC 234

The Court applied the doctrine to protect forest areas and declared that wildlife and forests are national assets that must be protected by the government.

 Conclusion

The Public Trust Doctrine is a powerful legal tool that prevents governments from selling or destroying natural resources for short-term gains. It reminds us that the environment belongs to everyone—not just today’s people, but future generations too.

Courts in India have played a major role in applying this doctrine to protect rivers, forests, coastlines, and wildlife. As responsible citizens and future lawyers, it is our duty to uphold this doctrine and ensure justice for nature and people.

 References 

1. M.C. Mehta v. Kamal Nath, (1997) 1 SCC 388.
2. Fomento Resorts & Hotels Ltd. v. Minguel Martins, (2009) 3 SCC 571.
3. Centre for Environmental Law v. Union of India, (2013) 8 SCC 234.

Tags: Environment Law, Constitutional Law, Landmark Cases, Public Trust Doctrine

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🔖 About Study on Law Hills

By Chandan Sha
One-stop blog for law notes, moot memorials & legal updates

Study on Law Hills is a legal blog that simplifies Indian law for students and professionals. From Constitution to Criminal Law, it offers:

• 📚 Law notes for exams
• ⚖️ Moot court memorials (Petitioner & Respondent)
• 🧾 Case commentaries & updates
• 📲 Legal reels & lectures via Instagram & YouTube

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Prevention and Control of Water Pollution in India

Prevention and Control of Water Pollution in India

Author- chandan sha 

Introduction

Water pollution is a serious environmental issue in India, affecting health, ecosystems, and the economy. The Constitution of India under Article 48A and Article 51A(g) imposes a duty upon both the State and citizens to protect the environment. Recognising the need for dedicated legislation, the Indian Parliament enacted the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, marking India’s first significant step toward tackling water pollution through legal means.

Historical Background

Before 1974, water pollution was governed by various fragmented laws like the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (Section 277), and the Factories Act, 1948. However, these laws lacked a specialized mechanism to monitor, prevent, or control pollution.

The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, came into force on 23rd March 1974. It was enacted following a consensus reached during the 1972 Stockholm Conference and under Article 252 of the Constitution, since water falls under the State List.

This Act was a landmark as it established Central and State Pollution Control Boards for the prevention and control of water pollution.

Few Important Definitions under the Act

The Act lays down several definitions under Section 2, which are pivotal to understanding its scope:

• Pollution [Section 2(e)] – Contamination of water or alteration of its physical, chemical, or biological properties that renders it harmful to public health or other uses.
• Sewage Effluent [Section 2(g)] – Waste substance from any sewerage system or sewage disposal works.
• Trade Effluent [Section 2(k)] – Liquid, gaseous or solid substance discharged from premises used for carrying on trade or industry.
• Stream [Section 2(j)] – Includes rivers, watercourses, inland water, subterranean water, and sea or tidal water to a certain extent.

Aims and Objectives of the Act

The key objectives of the 1974 Act are:

1. To prevent and control water pollution in streams and wells.
2. To maintain or restore the wholesomeness of water.
3. To establish the Central and State Pollution Control Boards (CPCB & SPCBs).
4. To regulate the discharge of pollutants into water bodies.
5. To provide penalties for non-compliance and violations.

Important Provisions of the Act

Some of the core provisions of the Act are:

• Section 17 & 18 – Lays down the functions of the State and Central Boards.
• Section 20 – Empowers Boards to obtain information regarding effluents and pollutants.
• Section 21 – Provides for sampling of effluents.
• Section 24 – Prohibits disposal of pollutants into water bodies.
• Section 25 & 26 – Mandates prior consent of the State Board before setting up any industry which is likely to discharge sewage or trade effluent.
• Section 33A – Empowers Boards to issue directions including closure or stoppage of electricity/water supply to polluting industries.

Composition of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)

As per Section 3 of the Act, the CPCB is constituted by the Central Government and consists of:

1. Chairman – A person with special knowledge or practical experience in environmental protection.
2. Officials from Central Government – Not more than five.
3. Representatives from State Boards – Not more than five.
4. Non-officials – Representing agriculture, fishery, industry, or trade.
5. Member-Secretary – With scientific, engineering, or management knowledge in pollution control.

Powers and Functions of the CPCB

Under Section 16, the Central Board performs several vital functions:

• Advise the Central Government on water pollution issues.
• Co-ordinate activities of State Boards.
• Provide technical assistance and guidance to State Boards.
• Conduct and sponsor research.
• Organize training for pollution control personnel.
• Lay down standards for water quality.

The State Boards under Section 17 have similar functions at the state level, including advising state governments and inspecting industrial units.

Limitations of the Act

Despite being a pioneering legislation, the 1974 Act suffers from certain limitations:

1. Inadequate enforcement – Weak implementation mechanisms at the State level.
2. Lack of accountability – No direct responsibility fixed on polluters in many cases.
3. Low penalties – The penalties under Section 41 to 45 are not strong deterrents.
4. No public participation – The Act lacks provisions for public involvement in decision-making.
5. Limited jurisdiction – The Act applies only to water pollution, leaving other forms of pollution to be dealt with under separate laws.
6. Dependence on consent mechanism – Boards have excessive discretionary powers under the "consent to operate" clause, which may lead to corruption or arbitrariness.

Conclusion

The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 was a crucial milestone in India's environmental legislative history. It laid the foundation for later comprehensive environmental laws, including the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. However, in today’s context of rapid industrialization and urbanization, there is a pressing need to revisit and strengthen the Water Act through stricter enforcement, greater public accountability, and integration with modern scientific approaches like real-time monitoring and data transparency.

References 

1. The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, No. 6, Acts of Parliament, 1974 (India).
2. Central Pollution Control Board, Annual Reports (available at: https://cpcb.nic.in/, last accessed June 25, 2025).
3. P. Leelakrishnan, Environmental Law in India (5th ed., LexisNexis 2019).
4. Ahuja, R., Environmental Law and Policy in India (Oxford University Press, 2020).
5. India Kanoon, Water Act judgments, https://indiankanoon.org/ (last accessed June 25, 2025).

Prevention and Control of Air Pollution

Prevention and Control of Air Pollution

✍️ Author: Chandan Sha

 Introduction

Air pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. It not only affects human health but also causes irreversible damage to ecosystems and the climate. In India, rapid industrialization, vehicular emissions, and unregulated construction activities have worsened air quality, especially in urban areas. To combat this, legal frameworks and regulatory measures have been adopted for the prevention, control, and abatement of air pollution.

What is Air Pollution?

Air pollution refers to the presence of harmful substances in the atmosphere that can pose a threat to the health of living beings and the environment. These substances may include gases (like carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide), particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), and biological molecules.

 The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981

The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 was enacted to provide for the prevention, control, and abatement of air pollution in India. It is the primary legislation governing air quality.

Objectives of the Act:

• To provide for the establishment of Central and State Pollution Control Boards.
• To empower boards to monitor air quality and set standards.
• To regulate industrial emissions.
• To prevent burning of hazardous materials and fuels.

Definitions under the Act

• Air pollutant [Section 2(a)] – Any solid, liquid or gaseous substance present in the atmosphere in such concentration as may be or tend to be injurious to human beings, other living creatures, plants, property or environment.
• Air pollution [Section 2(b)] – The presence of any air pollutant in the atmosphere.

 Powers and Functions of Pollution Control Boards

Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)

• Advises the central government on air pollution matters.
• Coordinates activities of state boards.
• Sets nationwide air quality standards.

 State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)

• Plan state-level programs for air pollution control.
• Grant consents for operating industries (under Section 21).
• Monitor and inspect industries and vehicles.

 Prohibitions under the Act

Under Section 21, no person shall establish or operate any industrial plant in an air pollution control area without prior consent of the State Board.

Under Section 22, industries are prohibited from discharging pollutants beyond the prescribed standards.

Role of Judiciary in Controlling Air Pollution

Indian courts have played a proactive role in enforcing air pollution laws and protecting the right to a clean environment as part of Article 21 – Right to Life.

Landmark Cases

1. M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1987)
   The Supreme Court ordered the closure of tanneries near River Ganga and introduced the concept of “polluter pays principle.”

2. Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar (1991)
   The court observed that the right to clean air and water is part of Article 21.

3. Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union of India (1996)
   The Supreme Court declared the precautionary and polluter pays principles as part of environmental law in India.

4. Delhi Vehicular Pollution Case (1998-2001)
   The Supreme Court directed the conversion of public transport vehicles in Delhi to CNG, reducing air pollution significantly.

Recent Developments and Initiatives

• National Air Quality Monitoring Programme (NAMP) monitors ambient air quality in 300+ cities.
• National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) launched in 2019 to reduce PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations by 20–30% by 2024.
• Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) enforced in Delhi-NCR to take timely actions during smog seasons.
• Use of bio-degradable fuels and retrofitting vehicles to comply with BS-VI norms.

Role of Citizens in Controlling Air Pollution

• Avoid burning waste and firecrackers.
• Use public transport or carpooling.
• Plant more trees.
• Report illegal emissions or industrial pollution to authorities.

Conclusion

The battle against air pollution is not just the responsibility of the government or judiciary; it requires collective effort from every individual, community, and industry. Strong implementation of environmental laws, public awareness, and sustainable practices are the keys to securing the right to clean air for present and future generations.

References

1. The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
2. M.C. Mehta v. Union of India, AIR 1987 SC 1086
3. Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar, AIR 1991 SC 420
4. Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union of India, AIR 1996 SC 2715
5. National Clean Air Programme, MoEFCC, https://moef.gov.in (Last accessed: June 25, 2025)

📌 Stay informed. Stay responsible. Let’s breathe clean together.
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🖋️ Author: Chandan Sha

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By Chandan Sha
One-stop blog for law notes, moot memorials & legal updates

Study on Law Hills is a legal blog that simplifies Indian law for students and professionals. From Constitution to Criminal Law, it offers:

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