How is the National Green Tribunal (NGT) different from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)?
- The NGT has been established by an Act whereas the CPCB has been created by an executive order of the Government.
- The NGT provides environmental justice and helps reduce the burden of litigation in the higher courts whereas the CPCB promotes cleanliness of streams and wells, and aims to improve the quality of air in the country.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct Answer: Option B
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was established on October 18, 2010, under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010. Its purpose is for the effective and expeditious disposal of cases related to environmental protection, conservation of forests, and other natural resources. This includes enforcing legal rights relating to the environment and providing relief and compensation for damages to persons and property.
The NGT's dedicated jurisdiction aims to provide speedy environmental justice and reduce the burden of litigation in higher courts. The Tribunal is mandated to dispose of applications or appeals within 6 months of filing.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is a statutory organisation constituted in September 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. It was further entrusted with powers and functions under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
The functions of the CPCB, as defined in the respective acts, are to promote the cleanliness of streams and wells by preventing, controlling, and abating water pollution, and to improve air quality and prevent, control, or abate air pollution throughout the country.
Statement 1 is incorrect: Both the NGT and CPCB are established through Acts of Parliament. Statement 2 is correct. Hence, only statement 2 is correct.
Sources: