A Critical Analysis of the Water Pollution Act 1974

Water, as one of the most crucial elements for human survival, faces significant threats due to human-induced pollution. Internationally, The United Nations Conference on Human Environment in 1972 in Stockholm, drew attention to the preservation of natural resources, including water, and efforts have been made worldwide to combat pollution. In India, the Water Pollution Act of 1974 was enacted to address these concerns. However, despite legislative measures, shortcomings persist, particularly in the ambiguity surrounding fines and punishments outlined in the legislation. This paper examines the judicial response to controlling water pollution in India in light of these legislative deficiencies. Through a comprehensive analysis of legal cases and precedents, it evaluates the effectiveness of the judiciary in enforcing water pollution laws, highlighting areas of success and areas needing improvement. By scrutinizing judicial interpretations and interventions, this study aims to provide insights into the challenges and opportunities in mitigating water pollution through legal avenues and also proposes suggestions.