Air, Water, Waste: HSPCB’s Environmental Performance Snapshot

1. Pollution Control and Beyond: RSPCB’s Regulatory Framework The Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board (RSPCB) plays a pivotal role in regulating and monitoring environmental quality across the state. Established under the provisions of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and later entrusted with responsibilities under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, the RSPCB has evolved into a proactive body committed to sustainable development, regulatory enforcement, and public environmental awareness. RSPCB: Mandate and Mission RSPCB is primarily tasked with preventing, controlling, and abating pollution in Rajasthan. Its broader mission includes: Ensuring compliance with environmental laws Promoting eco-friendly technologies Monitoring industrial and urban pollution sources Issuing certifications and registrations to industries Conducting awareness programs and public outreach Through a combination of regulatory mechanisms, scientific monitoring, and stakeholder engagement, RSPCB ensures that economic development in Rajasthan proceeds without compromising ecological integrity. Understanding RSPCB Certification One of the board’s key responsibilities is issuing RSPCB Certification to industries, construction projects, and other establishments whose operations could impact the environment. These certifications are vital for obtaining various licenses and clearances and demonstrate compliance with prescribed environmental standards. Types of RSPCB Certifications include: Consent to Establish (CTE): Issued before the construction or establishment of any project. Consent to Operate (CTO): Required before commencing operations. Renewal of Consents: For continued lawful functioning of units under the Air and Water Acts. These certifications ensure that businesses adhere to environmental norms right from the planning stage through operation, minimizing risks to air, water, and soil quality. The RSPCB Registration Process Any industrial, commercial, or healthcare facility likely to discharge pollutants must complete RSPCB Registration. This is a mandatory process that links the entity to a database of the board, allowing for streamlined monitoring and communication.

2. Steps in the RSPCB Registration Process: 1.Online Application: Applicants must visit the official RSPCB portal and submit an online application with required documents such as project reports, pollution control system details, and land-use approvals. 2.Document Verification: The board scrutinizes the technical, legal, and environmental aspects of the project. 3.Inspection & Assessment: Site inspections may be conducted to verify claims and assess pollution potential. 4.Grant of Consent: Upon successful review, CTE or CTO is granted, which acts as a formal RSPCB certification. The entire process is now largely digitized, ensuring transparency, speed, and traceability. Industries are also encouraged to adopt online continuous emission monitoring systems (OCEMS) and self-reporting tools. Ensuring Compliance and Enforcement RSPCB's regulatory framework extends beyond certifications. It involves: Regular inspections of units for pollution control measures Issuing show-cause notices and closure directions in case of violations Monitoring air and water quality through a network of laboratories Promoting the adoption of cleaner production technologies To aid compliance, RSPCB also provides industry-specific guidelines, training workshops, and resources for Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) and Hazardous Waste Handling. Moving Towards Sustainable Development The role of the RSPCB is not limited to enforcement—it is a catalyst for change. By integrating modern technology, updating its regulatory practices, and fostering public-private cooperation, the board is actively supporting Rajasthan’s journey towards sustainable industrialization and environmental resilience. Citizens, industries, and local bodies alike are urged to engage with RSPCB not just for legal compliance, but for a shared vision of a cleaner, greener Rajasthan. Conclusion The RSPCB Certification and Registrationprocesses form the backbone of Rajasthan’s environmental governance. With robust enforcement mechanisms, proactive outreach, and an ever-evolving regulatory framework, the RSPCB continues to lead the charge in pollution control and beyond.