Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Kirti Vardhan Singh, has outlined ongoing measures to tackle pollution through several key environmental laws. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) are enforcing the Water (Prevention & Control) Act, 1974, the Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 to manage pollution levels effectively.

The CPCB classifies industries into Red, Orange, Green, and White categories based on their Pollution Index, which assesses potential water and air pollution, as well as hazardous waste generation. SPCBs issue operational consents and ensure compliance with environmental standards. Non-compliance results in actions under the aforementioned environmental laws.

Currently, India has 526,691 operational units with pollution potential. Regulatory actions such as show-cause notices and closure directions are enforced against violators.

Recent Complaints and Monitoring

Recent data indicates that CPCB has received numerous complaints across various states over the past three years. For instance, Delhi recorded 34 complaints in 2021-2022, which surged to 96 in 2022-2023, before dropping to 56 in 2023-2024. Gujarat and Maharashtra also reported significant numbers of complaints.

CPCB has published comprehensive guidelines for monitoring and controlling emissions. Industries categorized as high pollution potential must install Online Continuous Effluent/Emission Monitoring Systems (OCEMS). These systems provide real-time data, enabling immediate action when pollutant levels exceed standards. CPCB uses SMS alerts to notify industries and regulatory bodies of violations.

Regulatory Measures and Future Plans

The Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change has established emission standards for various industries and emphasizes cleaner technologies and zero liquid discharge. Regular inspections and monitoring ensure compliance, and efforts are focused on critically polluted areas with specific restoration plans.

Complaints related to slaughterhouses, dairies, tanneries, and agro-based industries are also addressed. Specific complaints include illegal operations and pollution caused by meat processing units and leather tanneries.

As part of its ongoing commitment, the government continues to refine environmental regulations and enforcement practices to ensure cleaner air and water across the country.