The Punjab Environmental Protection Act, 1997, as amended in 2012, provides the legal framework for the protection, conservation, rehabilitation and improvement of the environment in Punjab. It also addresses pollution prevention and control and promotes sustainable development.
The Punjab Environmental Protection (Amendment) Act, 2012 (Act No. XXXV of 2012) adapted the environmental protection framework for the Province of Punjab following the devolution of environmental matters to the provinces.
Key Provisions of the Act
Section 11 – Punjab Environmental Quality Standards (PEQS)
Requires compliance with applicable Punjab Environmental Quality Standards (PEQS) and addresses discharges or emissions of effluent, waste, pollutants and noise exceeding prescribed standards. The Provincial Agency is responsible for implementing and enforcing applicable environmental standards.
Section 12 – Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
Requires proponents of applicable projects to file an IEE or EIA with the Provincial Agency and obtain the required environmental approval before commencing construction or operation. The applicable environmental assessment regulations determine which projects require an IEE or EIA.
Sections 12 & 13 – Hazardous Waste and Substances
Provides restrictions and regulatory requirements concerning the import, generation, collection, transport, treatment, disposal, storage, handling and use of hazardous waste and hazardous substances.
Section 14 – Actions Prohibited
Addresses activities that may cause pollution or adversely affect the environment, including improper disposal of waste, discharge of pollutants and other activities that contravene applicable environmental requirements.
Section 15 – Regulation of Motor Vehicles
Provides for the regulation of motor vehicles that emit air pollutants or noise above applicable environmental standards and enables measures for controlling vehicular pollution.
Section 16 – Environmental Protection Orders
Provides the Provincial Environmental Protection Agency with powers to issue environmental protection orders where activities, emissions, discharges or waste disposal are causing or are likely to cause environmental pollution or damage.
