What is the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)?

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is a statutory organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India. It was established in 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and later entrusted with powers under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

Purpose of CPCB

CPCB functions as the national-level authority to:

• Plan, promote, and coordinate pollution control programs.

• Advise the central government on environmental matters.

• Act as the apex body for environmental monitoring and enforcement in India.

Key Functions of CPCB

1. Monitoring Pollution

• Monitor air and water quality across India.

• Operate the National Air Quality Monitoring Programme (NAMP) and Water Quality Monitoring Programme.

2. Policy and Standards

• Develop and recommend national standards for:

  • Emission levels from industries

  • Water discharge norms

  • Ambient air quality

• Frame technical guidelines for pollution control.

3.  Coordinating with SPCBs

• Coordinate the activities of State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs).

• Provide technical assistance, data, and training.

• Resolve disputes among states on pollution issues.

4. Waste Management Oversight

• Guide and regulate:

  • E-Waste

  • Biomedical Waste

  • Plastic Waste

  • Hazardous Waste

• Maintain online portals for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) registration and compliance.

5. Research and Development

• Undertake and sponsor studies on pollution control technologies and environmental impact assessment (EIA).

6. Legal and Enforcement Authority

• Issue directions under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

• Recommend actions, fines, or closures of polluting industries.

7.  Public Awareness

• Promote environmental education and awareness programs.

• Publish annual reports, guidelines, and data for public access.

Location

• Head Office: New Delhi

• Zonal Offices: Kolkata, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Vadodara, Shillong

Legal Powers

Under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, CPCB can:

• Direct any industry or authority to take action on pollution control.

• Stop power, water supply, or close units for violations.