• Changes in the Water Amendment (Pollution and Prevention) Act passed on 12th February 2024 include:

1. Decriminalizing certain violations of the Act deemed ‘minor’, replacing most of the penalties of imprisonment with fines ranging from ₹10,000 to 15 lacs.
   In case of an unfair fine, a provision for appeal has been provided in the bill.

2. Empowering the Centre to frame rules to select the chairpersons of State pollution control boards.

3. The text of the Act notes that the amended bill will establish a balance between the severity of the offense and the gravity of the punishment given.

• However, there were a few points of concern with the new amendment.

• These include:

1. Absence of deterrent to violating environmental laws due to decriminalization.

2. Limited role of state government in safeguarding the environment.

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