National Pollution Control Day, observed on December 2, commemorates the lives lost in the catastrophic Bhopal Gas Tragedy of 1984, one of the world's worst industrial disasters. The tragedy, caused by the release of toxic gases, claimed thousands of lives and underscored the dire consequences of industrial negligence.
This day serves a dual purpose: to honour the victims and to spread awareness about the harmful impacts of environmental pollution on air, water, and soil. It also highlights the need for proactive measures to prevent industrial disasters like the Bhopal tragedy and to promote sustainable development.
READ| National Pollution Control Day 2024: Date, History, Significance, Objectives and Key Facts
Why is National Pollution Control Day Celebrated?
The primary objective of National Pollution Control Day is to promote measures for controlling industrial disasters and reducing pollution. Governments worldwide have enacted various laws to regulate and mitigate pollution, ensuring better environmental standards and safety protocols.
The Growing Threat of Pollution
Environmental pollution significantly affects human health and quality of life. According to WHO, mere household air pollution was responsible for nearly 3.2 million premature deaths in 2020. Pollution, or the introduction of harmful substances and energies—such as heat or noise—into the environment, has become a critical issue over the years.
As pollution levels continue to rise, it becomes the shared responsibility of both governments and citizens to devise effective solutions and implement measures to control it.
READ| Global Air Pollution Rankings 2024: Bangladesh Ranked as the Most Polluted; Check India’s Position
Laws and Regulations Introduced by the Government of India to Curb Pollution
To address pollution, the Government of India has implemented several acts and rules, including:
- Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
- Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977
- Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
- Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
- Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986
- Manufacture, Storage and Import of Hazardous Chemicals Rules, 1989
- Hazardous Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989
- Rules for Hazardous Micro-organisms and Genetically Engineered Organisms, 1989
- Bio-medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998
- Recycled Plastics Manufacture and Use Rules, 1999
- Ozone Depleting Substances (Regulation) Rules, 2000
- Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000
- Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000
- Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001
- Environmental Impact Assessment Notification, 2006
These laws aim to curb pollution at its source and establish guidelines for managing waste, hazardous substances, and emissions.
Recent Updates in Pollution Control
On November 12, 2024, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change introduced the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) (Method of Investigation and Imposition of Penalties) Rules, 2024. These rules, enforced under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, provide a structured framework for monitoring and penalizing violations related to air pollution.
In conclusion, National Pollution Control Day reminds us of the devastating impact of industrial disasters and the urgent need to address pollution. By adhering to stringent environmental regulations and fostering public awareness, we can work towards a healthier, more sustainable future. The collective effort of governments, industries, and individuals is crucial to tackling this global crisis.
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