When was the Air Pollution Control Act enacted into law?

Key Points

• The Air Pollution Control Act was enacted in 1981 to address the issue of air pollution in India.
• The Act provides a framework for the prevention, control, and abatement of air pollution.
• The legislation established the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) to oversee the implementation of pollution control measures.
• The Act empowers these boards to set air quality standards and enforce compliance to protect public health and the environment.

Additional Information

• Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
  • The CPCB is a statutory organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
  • Its primary functions include advising the central government on air and water quality management.
  • It also coordinates with SPCBs to ensure uniformity in the implementation of pollution control measures.
  • The CPCB sets national air quality standards and monitors air pollution levels across the country.
• State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)
  • SPCBs are responsible for implementing air pollution control measures within their respective states.
  • They issue permits and regulations for industries to control emissions and ensure compliance with air quality standards.
  • SPCBs also conduct inspections and take enforcement actions against violators of pollution control norms.
  • They work in coordination with the CPCB to report air pollution data and take necessary actions.
• Air Quality Standards
  • Air quality standards are set to protect human health and the environment from adverse effects of air pollution.
  • These standards define the maximum allowable concentrations of various pollutants in the air.
  • Pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and carbon monoxide (CO) are regulated under these standards.
  • Regular monitoring and reporting are essential to ensure compliance with air quality standards.