What is the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB)?

The State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) is a statutory body formed under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and also empowered under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

Every Indian state and union territory has its own SPCB, such as:

• Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB)

• Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB)

• Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) (for UT)

Purpose of SPCB

To monitor, control, and prevent pollution in the state — including air, water, and land pollution — by regulating industries and ensuring environmental compliance.

Key Functions of SPCB

1. Granting Permissions

• Issue Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO) for industries.

• Grant authorizations for hazardous waste, e-waste, biomedical waste, and plastic waste.

2.  Monitoring Pollution

• Regularly test air and water quality, and inspect industries.

• Operate air quality monitoring stations and water testing labs.

3.  Industry Regulation

• Set discharge/emission standards for pollutants.

• Conduct surprise inspections and audits.

• Take action against industries violating pollution norms.

4. Waste Management

• Supervise handling and disposal of hazardous waste, e-waste, plastic waste, and biomedical waste.

• Approve and monitor waste treatment and disposal facilities.

5. Public Reporting and Complaints

• Maintain public data on pollution levels.

• Address complaints about illegal discharge, factory pollution, or improper waste handling.

6.  Environmental Awareness

• Organize awareness programs on environmental conservation.

• Collaborate with schools, NGOs, and local bodies for education and outreach.

Legal Powers

SPCBs have the authority to:

• Issue notices and orders.

• Shut down polluting industries.

• Levy fines and prosecute offenders.

Coordination with CPCB

• SPCBs work under the guidance of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

• They implement central laws and policies at the state level.