State Pollution Control Boards

State Pollution Control Boards are state-level statutory bodies responsible for implementing air-pollution control law within their jurisdictions. Under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, their central role is to prevent, control and abate air pollution through planning, standard-setting, monitoring, advice and regulatory enforcement.

Planning, advice and public awareness

Under Section 17, each State Board coordinates pollution-control policy and implementation within the state.

• It plans a comprehensive programme for the prevention, control or abatement of air pollution and secures its execution.
• It advises the state government on matters concerning air pollution and on the suitability of locations for industries likely to pollute the air.
• It collects and disseminates information relating to air pollution.
• It collaborates with the Central Pollution Control Board in training personnel and organising mass-education programmes.

Standards, monitoring and inspection

The Board performs the technical functions needed to identify pollution and prescribe enforceable limits.

• It inspects air pollution control areas, assesses air quality and takes appropriate preventive or remedial steps.
• It inspects industrial plants, manufacturing processes and pollution-control equipment, and issues necessary directions to their operators.
• In consultation with the Central Board, it lays down emission standards for industrial plants, automobiles and other sources, excluding ships and aircraft, while considering national ambient air-quality standards.
• It may establish or recognise a laboratory to enable efficient performance of its functions.

Regulatory and enforcement role

The Act gives State Boards operational powers to translate these functions into pollution control.

• The Board administers the requirement of prior consent for establishing or operating industrial plants in an air pollution control area, subject to the Act's applicable provisions.
• It may enter and inspect premises, obtain information and take samples of air or emissions according to the statutory procedure.
• It can issue written directions under Section 31A, including directions for closure or regulation of an industry and stoppage or regulation of electricity, water or other services.