Jahnavi Daga, B.B.A. L.L.B.(Hons.), Jindal Global Law School
ABSTRACT
The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 was the first enactment by the Parliament to have uniform law across the country for Environment issues. Such a legislation was considered the need of the hour because of the rapid growth in industries and the increasing inclination to urbanization which endangered the rivers and streams and the health and safety of the people of the country. This Act was enacted with the objective of combating and preventing water pollution in the country. It is also the first legislation which gives comprehensive and specific powers to the regulatory agencies for controlling water pollution. As a result of this Act, the Pollution Control Board of the State and the Centre came into being. One of the most important powers given to the State Board for controlling pollution is mentioned under Section 25 of this Act which talks about “Restrictions on new outlets and new discharges”. It gives power to the State Board to authorize new outlets and new discharges and take action with regard to any unauthorized outlets. This article aims to analyse Section 25 and its scope in light of landmark case laws and amendments.
