📑 Table of Contents
📋 Quick Overview
The right to a clean environment is recognized as part of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution. The Supreme Court has played a pioneering role in environmental protection through landmark judgments.
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Environmental Laws in India
Key environmental laws include: the Environment Protection Act, 1986 (umbrella legislation), the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.
The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 provides specialized adjudication for environmental disputes.
National Green Tribunal (NGT)
The NGT has jurisdiction over all civil cases involving substantial environmental questions. It can order compensation, restitution, and remedial action. In Kolkata, the NGT's Eastern Zone Bench sits at Kolkata and handles cases from West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, and Jharkhand.
The NGT follows a summary procedure and must dispose of cases within 6 months.
Pollution Control in Kolkata
The West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB) is responsible for pollution control in Kolkata. Citizens can file complaints about: air pollution (construction dust, vehicular emissions), water pollution (industrial discharge), noise pollution (construction, industrial), and solid waste mismanagement.
Complaints can be filed online through the WBPCB website.
⚡ Need Legal Help?
Facing environmental issues in Kolkata? Our lawyers can advise on remedies before the NGT or High Court.
Frequently Asked Questions
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