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.
The Environment (Protection) Act 1986
- It was enacted in 1986 in the aftermath of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy
- Functions: It empowers the Central Government to establish authorities charged with the mandate of preventing environmental pollution in all its forms.
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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
12 Jan 2024
