Odisha Cabinet approves water pollution control amendment act, 2024
Bhubaneswar, Nov 21 (UNI) The Odisha Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, on Friday approved the adoption of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Act, 2024.
Briefing the media after the meeting, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja said that the adoption of the Amendment Act underscores Odisha’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment while maintaining strong environmental safeguards.
He stated that the State Government has decided to adopt the Amendment Act, enacted by the Parliament of India under Article 252 of the Constitution, as part of its broader efforts to promote sustainable development, improve ease of doing business, and strengthen environmental governance.
According to the Chief Secretary, the decision reflects the State’s proactive approach to streamlining regulatory frameworks while ensuring robust environmental protection.
The Amendment Act introduces several key changes aimed at improving environmental governance and simplifying regulatory procedures.
It decriminalises minor offences, reducing the regulatory burden on industries and enhancing compliance. It also lays out the procedure for appointing the Chairperson of the State Pollution Control Board.
These changes are expected to enhance operational efficiency and ensure uniform application of environmental laws across states, supporting sustainable industrial growth.
For Odisha, Ahuja noted, the Act offers multiple benefits, including improved ease of doing business through decentralised processes and enhanced compliance.
It will also strengthen environmental governance by improving pollution monitoring and protecting water resources.
Additionally, the Act aligns Odisha with India’s sustainable development goals, promoting environmental conservation and long-term ecological balance.
