Environment

Choose the Correct Answer

Correct Answer : Option c

Explanation
The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 is a pivotal environmental legislation in India aimed at preventing, controlling, and abating air pollution. It establishes frameworks for the creation of Central and State Pollution Control Boards to monitor and regulate air quality across the country.
Key Amendments:
● Inclusion of Noise Pollution: Through subsequent amendments, the Act expanded its scope to recognize noise pollution as a form of air pollution, thereby empowering authorities to regulate and control noise levels.
● Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023: This recent amendment aims to decriminalize certain offenses under the Air Act, replacing imprisonment clauses with monetary penalties to promote ease of doing business and encourage compliance

Statement 1 is correct: Section 2(a) of the Act of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 defines an air pollutant as any solid, liquid, or gaseous substance present in the atmosphere in a concentration that may be harmful to human beings, living creatures, plants, property, or the environment.

Statement 2 is correct: While the original Act did not mention noise pollution, later amendments and court interpretations recognized noise as a form of air pollution and brought it under the regulatory framework of the Act.

Statement 3 is correct: Sections 16 and 17 of the Act states that both the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) are empowered to set emission standards for industries and vehicles to control air pollution. They also have the authority to issue directives, conduct inspections, and enforce compliance with air quality standards.