Question

Under which law the industries likely to cause environmental pollution should be examined by

• A. The Factories Act,1948
• B. The Water Act 1974.
• C. The Environment Protection Act 1986
• D. The Air Act 1981

Hint:

The Environment Protection Act of 1986 is the key umbrella legislation that empowers the central government to set discharge standards, inspect industrial premises, and coordinate actions across various state boards.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Environmental protection in India is governed by a framework of specific laws.
While some acts focus on individual components like air or water, an umbrella act provides comprehensive powers to regulate, inspect, and examine any industry likely to cause pollution.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the scope of each environmental law in India:
1. The Factories Act, 1948:
This act focuses on occupational safety, health, and welfare of workers inside factories.
It is not an environmental protection law.
Thus, Option (A) is incorrect.
2. The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974:
This act specifically targets the prevention and control of water pollution and maintaining water quality.
Thus, Option (B) is incorrect.
3. The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981:
This act specifically targets the prevention, control, and abatement of air pollution.
Thus, Option (D) is incorrect.
4. The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986:
Enacted in the wake of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, this is an "umbrella" legislation.
It grants the Central Government the power to take all necessary measures to protect and improve the environment.
Under Section 3 and Section 5 of this Act, the government has the authority to examine, restrict, close down, or regulate any industrial facility or process likely to cause environmental pollution.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Industries likely to cause environmental pollution are regulated and examined under the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
Therefore, the correct option is (C).