Crimes against environment
Mumbai: The Centre is considering a heavy penalty for those degrading the environment. The Environment Protection Act currently does not allow rigorous punishment even when a person is caught destroying the environment. The amendment is likely to be passed and implemented within the next six months.
Valsa Nair-Singh, secretary, environment, said the Union ministry held several rounds of discussions and decided the penalty must be strong enough. “For illegal construction in an area protected under environmental norms, or untreated chemical effluent or sewage released into water bodies, the fine could be as high as 80% of the project cost. There is also a proposal of compounding offence. If the crime is committed the first time it may be a penalty, the second time could be cancellation of the licence,’’said Nair.
Valsa Nair-Singh, secretary, environment, said the Union ministry held several rounds of discussions and decided the penalty must be strong enough. “For illegal construction in an area protected under environmental norms, or untreated chemical effluent or sewage released into water bodies, the fine could be as high as 80% of the project cost. There is also a proposal of compounding offence. If the crime is committed the first time it may be a penalty, the second time could be cancellation of the licence,’’said Nair.
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