Environment Protection Act was passed in which year?
VerifiedAnswer: 1986
Explanation:
The Environment Protection Act of 1986 stands as one of India's most comprehensive environmental legislation. This landmark act was passed by the Indian Parliament in response to the growing concerns about environmental degradation and the urgent need for systematic environmental protection measures across the country.
The act came into force following the tragic Bhopal Gas Tragedy of 1984, which highlighted the critical need for stronger environmental regulations in India. This industrial disaster served as a wake-up call for the government to establish more robust framework for environmental protection and pollution control.
The Environment Protection Act, 1986 serves as an umbrella legislation that provides the legal framework for environmental protection in India. It empowers the central government to take necessary measures for protecting and improving the quality of environment, preventing environmental pollution, and coordinating activities of various regulatory agencies.
Key features of this act include the establishment of environmental standards, regulation of industrial activities, control of pollution sources, and provision for environmental impact assessments. The act also grants powers to the government to close down polluting industries, impose penalties, and take emergency measures during environmental crises. This comprehensive legislation has since become the backbone of India's environmental governance system, enabling the country to address various environmental challenges effectively.
