Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Cabinet on Friday approved the adoption of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Act, 2024, marking a significant step toward strengthening environmental governance while enhancing ease of doing business in the State.
The Amendment Act, enacted by the Parliament under Article 252 of the Constitution, aims to streamline regulatory processes, promote sustainable development, and modernise pollution-control mechanisms. By adopting the law, Odisha joins other states in ensuring uniformity in environmental regulations across the country.
According to the Forest, Environment & Climate Change Department, the amended legislation introduces several key changes, including the decriminalisation of minor offences to reduce compliance burdens on industries. This move is expected to encourage better adherence to environmental norms while allowing authorities to focus on serious violations.
The Act also clearly outlines the procedure for appointing the Chairperson of the State Pollution Control Board, thereby strengthening institutional governance and operational efficiency within the State’s pollution-control framework.
Officials said the adoption of the Act will support Odisha’s efforts to balance economic growth with ecological protection. It is expected to improve ease of doing business through decentralised decision-making and foster more effective monitoring of water pollution. The initiative aligns with India’s broader sustainable development priorities and underscores Odisha’s commitment to preserving water resources.
The State Government emphasised that the move reaffirms Odisha’s proactive approach in integrating environmental safeguards with industrial expansion, paving the way for long-term ecological stability and responsible development.
