CPCB report to NGT shows 80 pc environmental funds remain unutilised

• The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has spent only 20 percent of the environment protection charge and environmental compensation collected so far for mitigating air pollution in Delhi-NCR and protecting the environment.
• The CPCB receives compensation broadly under two heads - environment protection charge (EPC) and environmental compensation (EC).

The CPCB

• It is a government agency established in 1974 to deal with water and air pollution in India.
• It advises the government on these issues and sets standards for water and air quality.
• It also creates guidelines for handling waste and pollution control equipment.

The CPCB's main tasks include:

• Keeping rivers and wells clean by preventing water pollution.
• Making the air cleaner by reducing air pollution.

The CPCB sets standards for:

• Water quality
• Air quality
• Industrial waste emissions
• Medical waste disposal
• Vehicle emissions
• Fuel quality
• Noise limits for engines and generators
• The CPCB also creates minimal pollution standards for different industries, which states must follow.

Prelims takeaway

• CPCB
• Pollution