National Pollution Control Day is observed every year on December 2. This day commemorates the victims of the 1984 Bhopal Gas Tragedy, one of the worst industrial disasters in history, which claimed thousands of lives and left millions suffering from long-term health issues. The day aims to raise awareness about the dangers of pollution, suggest measures to mitigate its adverse effects, and emphasize the importance of taking steps to protect the environment.
History of National Pollution Control Day
The Bhopal Gas Tragedy occurred on the night of December 2-3, 1984, when methyl isocyanate (MIC) gas leaked from a plant owned by Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL). This catastrophic event caused thousands of deaths and left millions grappling with severe health problems. The tragedy served as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing pollution and ensuring stringent industrial safety measures, not only in India but across the globe.
National Pollution Control Day 2024
National Pollution Control Day is observed annually on December 2 to mark the anniversary of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy of December 2-3, 1984. During this disaster, a deadly leak of methyl isocyanate (MIC) gas occurred at the Union Carbide plant in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. This tragedy highlighted the urgent need for stricter pollution control laws and improved industrial safety protocols.
Objectives of National Pollution Control Day
The primary objectives of National Pollution Control Day are as follows:
- Spreading Awareness about the Dangers of Pollution: Educating people about the severe impacts of air, water, and noise pollution.
- Promoting a Clean and Healthy Environment: Encouraging the implementation of measures to improve environmental conditions.
- Preventing Industrial Disasters: Highlighting the importance of enforcing safety standards in industrial areas.
- Uniting Government and Citizens: Focusing on policies and measures for pollution control with collective efforts from both the government and the public.
- Encouraging Innovation: Promoting the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies and sustainable practices.
- Strengthening Laws: Supporting the strict enforcement of pollutions control laws to protect public health and the environment.
Key Facts
- Deaths in the Bhopal Gas Tragedy: Over 15,000 estimated fatalities, with more than 500,000 people affected.
- Types of Pollution: Air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, and noise pollution.
- Institutions for Pollution Control in India: Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards.
- Impacts of Pollution: Respiratory issues, heart diseases, cancer, climate change, and loss of biodiversity.
- Major Laws: Environment (Protection) Act, 1986; Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981; Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
Measures for Pollution Control
- Use of Clean Energy Sources: Adopting renewable energy like solar and wind power.
- Pollution Control in Vehicles: Encouraging the use of electric vehicles (EVs).
- Waste Management: Segregating organic and inorganic waste for proper disposal.
- Recycling: Preparing used materials for reuse to reduce waste.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Spreading awareness in schools, colleges, and communities about pollution and its prevention.
Laws for Pollution Control in India
India has implemented several laws and policies to control pollution and ensure environmental sustainability. Some key laws include:
- Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981: Focuses on reducing air pollution by controlling emissions from industries and vehicles.
- Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974: Designed to prevent water pollution and monitor the discharge of wastewater.
- Environment Protection Act, 1986: Enacted after the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, this law empowers authorities to take action against polluting entities.
- Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016: Promotes the proper disposal and recycling of plastic waste.
- National Green Tribunal (NGT), 2010: Provides a platform for resolving environmental disputes.
- National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), 2019: Aims to reduce PM2.5 levels by 20-30% by 2024 and plans improvements in 131 non-compliant cities by 2026.
Pollution Crisis in India – Key Facts and Statistics
- Global Ranking: India is the second-most polluted country in the world.
- Impact on Health: Pollution reduces the average life expectancy of an Indian by 5.3 years.
- Impact on Every Citizen: All 1.3 billion people in India are exposed to pollution levels exceeding the PM2.5 standards set by the WHO.
- Greatest Threat: PM2.5 pollution is the most significant health hazard in India.
- Increase in Pollution: PM2.5 levels have risen by 67.7% between 1998 and 2021.
- Regional Impact: People living in the northern plains may lose an average of 8 years of life expectancy due to current pollution levels.
Pollution in Delhi
Delhi is a prime example of the severity of India’s pollution crisis.
- Current Situation: On several days, Delhi’s air quality monitoring centers record an AQI above 400, placing it in the “severe” category.
- Major Causes:
- Vehicular Emissions: Contribute 16.4% to Delhi’s pollution.
- Crop Residue Burning: Accounts for 11% of pollution.
- Seasonal Factors: Slow winds and low temperatures trap pollutants near the ground.
Measures Taken to Control Pollution in Delhi
- Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): Implements strict measures based on pollution levels.
- Odd-Even Vehicle Rule: Limits the number of vehicles on roads.
- Promotion of Electric Vehicles: Reduces dependence on fossil fuels.
- Smog Towers: Projects to filter pollutants from the air.
- Expansion of Public Transport: Includes the use of metro services and electric buses.
Acts/Rules Established for Pollution Control in India
| Act/Rule | Year | Objective |
| Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act | 1974 | To prevent and control water pollution and maintain or restore the wholesomeness of water. |
| Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Cess Act | 1977 | To levy a cess on water consumption to fund pollution control efforts by state pollution control boards. |
| Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act | 1981 | To prevent and control air pollution and establish air quality standards. |
| Environment (Protection) Act | 1986 | To set standards for emissions and discharges in the environment and regulate environmental pollution. |
| Manufacture, Storage, and Import of Hazardous Chemical Rules | 1989 | To regulate the handling and storage of hazardous chemicals and ensure safety in chemical industries. |
| Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Rules | 1989 | To manage hazardous waste, including its generation, storage, transport, and disposal. |
| Manufacture, Storage, Import, Export & Storage of Hazardous Microorganisms and Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells Rules | 1989 | To regulate the safe use of genetically engineered organisms and hazardous microorganisms. |
| Chemical Accidents (Emergency, Planning, Preparedness, and Response) Rules | 1996 | To deal with chemical accidents and establish mechanisms for emergency preparedness and response. |
| Bio-Medical Waste (Management & Handling) Rules | 1998 | To manage and dispose of bio-medical waste in an environmentally sound manner. |
| Recycled Plastics Manufacture & Usage Rules | 1999 | To regulate the use, manufacture, and recycling of plastics to prevent environmental hazards. |
| Ozone Depleting Substances (Regulation) Rules | 2000 | To control and regulate substances that deplete the ozone layer in accordance with the Montreal Protocol. |
| Noise Pollution (Regulation & Control) Rules | 2000 | To regulate and control noise pollution from industrial, commercial, and residential sources. |
| Municipal Solid Waste (Management & Handling) Rules | 2000 | To ensure proper management and handling of municipal solid waste. |
| Batteries (Management & Handling) Rules | 2001 | To regulate the collection, recycling, and disposal of used batteries. |
| Maharashtra Bio-Degradable Garbage (Control) Ordinance | 2006 | To regulate and manage biodegradable garbage in Maharashtra. |
| Environment Impact Assessment Notification | 2006 | To assess the environmental impact of proposed projects and activities and implement mitigation measures. |
| Municipal Solid Waste Management and Handling Rules | 2016 | To ensure sustainable and scientific management of municipal solid waste through segregation, collection, transport, processing, and disposal. |
FAQs
1. Why is National Pollution Control Day observed?
National Pollution Control Day is observed to honor the victims of the 1984 Bhopal Gas Tragedy and to spread awareness about the dangers of pollution.
2. What are the main causes of pollution?
- Industrial emissions
- Vehicular pollution
- Plastic waste
- Overexploitation of natural resources
3. What are the laws for pollution control in India?
- Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
- Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
- Environment Protection Act, 1986
4. What are the adverse effects of pollution?
- Health issues like respiratory diseases and cancer
- Climate change
- Loss of biodiversity
5. How can common citizens contribute to pollution control?
- Use public transportation
- Reduce the use of plastic
- Dispose of waste properly
- Plant trees
Conclusion
Pollution is a global issue that demands collective action. National Pollution Control Day 2024 serves as a significant step toward raising awareness and driving change. Through strict laws, innovative technologies, and public participation, India can control pollution and move towards a cleaner and healthier future.
Also Read:
- Noise Pollution: Causes, Sources and Solutions
- Artificial Rain: Work Process, Challenges and Limitations
