Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
Context: The Union Power Ministry said will wait for the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to decide on the mandatory installation of Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) units in coal-fired thermal power plants.
Important Pointers:
Statutory Body: CPCB is a statutory organization established in September 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
Additional Powers: It was later entrusted with responsibilities under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
Environmental Support Role: Provides technical services to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
Functions:
Water Pollution Control: Promotes cleanliness of streams and wells by preventing and controlling water pollution.
Air Quality Improvement: Works to improve air quality and prevent, control, or abate air pollution across the country.
Advisory Role: Advises the Central Government on matters relating to air and water pollution control.
Coordination: Coordinates with State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs), assists them, and helps resolve inter-state disputes.
Delegation of Powers: For Union Territories, CPCB has delegated its powers under relevant pollution laws to regional administrations.
Environmental Standards: Develops and revises national environmental standards for air, water, and emissions.
COINDS: Works on Comprehensive Industry Documents (COINDS) for sector-specific pollution management.
Guidelines: Prepares manuals, codes, and guidance for treatment and disposal of sewage, trade effluents, and stack emissions.