The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has proposed a draft notification of “Guidelines relating to the Uniform Consent fee and Grant, Refusal or Cancellation of Consent to Establish or Consent to Operate” (“Guidelines”) to reform consent procedures under Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and Authorization under various Environmental Protection Rules, 1986 on 19.07.2024. These Guidelines streamlines the operations and reduces regulatory burdens on industries, promoting ease of doing business. You are invited to submit objections or suggestions about the draft notification in writing to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Indira Paryavaran Bhawan, Jor Bagh Road, Aliganj, New Delhi-110003, or via email to mishra.vp@gov.in or prasoon.tripathi76@gov.in by 17.09.2024.

Key Highlights:

1. Uniform Fee Structure: The Guidelines establishes a consistent fee schedule for consents related to establishment and operation aiming to standardize charges across different states and pollution control bodies based on factors like capital investment and the nature of the industry.
2. Consent Validity and Renewal:
   1. Consent to Establish (CTE): Validity depends on environmental clearance requirements. If no clearance is needed, initially valid for five years is extendable by up to two years.
   2. Consent to Operate (CTO): Procedures for renewal are clearly outlined, emphasizing on timely processing.
3. Processing of Consent Application: A centralized portal will be developed for implementation of the guidelines for submission and tracking of applications. Detailed instructions for submitting applications, including necessary documentation and fee payments are provided emphasizing on transparency and accountability in the processing of consents. Further, timelines for processing of these consent applications are also provided.
4. Site Selection Criteria: Guidelines for site selection and verification of sites based on environmental impact assessments and proximity to sensitive areas like protected ecosystems and heritage sites are laid down.
5. Monitoring Committee: There will be a Monitoring Committee both at the National and State Level to oversee and monitor the implementation of these Guidelines and remove any difficulties in this regard.
6. Model Templates: Model templates for applications and authorizations are provided as well.

Source: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

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