The Environmental Protection Act 1986 is a law in India that aims to protect the environment from pollution and other environmental hazards. In 1986, the Indian government enacted this law to address growing concerns about the negative impact of human activities on the environment. The Act is widely considered to have been a response to the Bhopal gas leak. The Act has several provisions that address different environmental issues, including air and water pollution, waste management, and the protection of wildlife and habitats.
One of the main provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 is the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981, which sets standards for the control of air pollution. The government requires businesses to obtain permits before they can operate, and these permits set limits on the levels of various pollutants that businesses can emit into the air. The government also has the power to enforce these limits and to take legal action against businesses that exceed them.
Another important provision of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 is the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974, which sets standards for the control of water pollution. The government requires businesses to obtain permits before they can discharge pollutants into water bodies, and it sets limits on the levels of various pollutants that businesses can release. The government also has the power to enforce these limits and to take legal action against businesses that exceed them.
The Environmental Protection Act 1986 also has provisions that protect wildlife and habitats, including the Wildlife Protection Act 1972, which sets out the legal protection for various species of animals and plants, and the Forest (Conservation) Act 1980, which regulates the use of forests and other protected areas.
Overall, the Environmental Protection Act 1986 is an important law that helps the Indian government safeguard the environment and protect human health by regulating various activities that can have negative impacts on the environment.