Context:

The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has been entrusted with powers to permit the discharge of treated sewage and effluents into the river, canals or water bodies.

NMCG Amends Ganga Authorities Order 2016: Environmental Regulation Reinforced

• NMCG  issued a new notification  to amend the River Ganga (Rejuvenation, Protection and Management) Authorities Order, 2016.

NMCG Notification Permits Treated Sewage Discharge into Water Bodies

• Notification  issued by NMCG  allows discharge of treated sewage, conforming to the norms prescribed under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, into rivers or any other water bodies  after exploring the option of its direct reuse for purposes such as agricultural use, industrial use, etc.

National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG): Safeguarding the Holy River’s Ecological Health

• About: It is a  registered society under the Societies Registration Act 1860.
• Nodal Agency: Ministry of Jal Shakti
• Objective: To maintain minimum ecological flows in the river Ganga to ensure water quality and environmentally sustainable development.
• Enforcement: It is the implementation arm of the National Council for Rejuvenation, Protection and Management of River Ganga (National Ganga Council) under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act (EPA),1986
• Headed by: The Executive Committee and Governing Council of NMCG  is chaired by  Director General (DG) who is an  Additional Secretary in Government of India
• Vision: To  restore the wholesomeness of the river by ensuring “Aviral Dhara” (Continuous Flow”), “Nirmal Dhara”(“Unpolluted Flow”) and  Geologic and ecological integrity.

News Source: The Indian Express