Environment Protection (Management of Contaminated Sites) Rules, 2025
The Environment Ministry introduced the Environment Protection (Management of Contaminated Sites) Rules, 2025. These rules provide a legal framework to identify, assess and remediate chemical contamination at hazardous sites across India. Until now, such sites lacked a formal process despite their risks to health and environment. The new regulations mark step in addressing this longstanding issue.
Definition of Contaminated Sites
Contaminated sites are locations where hazardous wastes were dumped historically. These wastes have polluted soil, groundwater and surface water. The pollution poses risks to human health and ecosystems. Such sites include landfills, waste dumps, spill areas, and chemical storage facilities. Many were established before regulations existed. Currently, 103 contaminated sites have been identified nationwide.
Need for Legal Framework
Earlier efforts included creating an inventory of sites and guidance for assessment and remediation. However, no legal structure existed to enforce cleanup or assign responsibility. The 2025 rules fill this gap. They ensure accountability and establish clear procedures for managing contaminated sites. This legal backing is key to effective pollution control and environmental protection.
Assessment and Remediation Process
District administrations must submit half-yearly reports on suspected contaminated sites. State pollution boards or designated expert bodies conduct preliminary assessments within 90 days. A detailed survey follows within three months to confirm contamination and measure hazardous chemical levels. The rules cover 189 hazardous chemicals identified under previous regulations. Confirmed contaminated sites are publicly notified and access may be restricted.
Responsibility and Funding
The expert body prepares a remediation plan for each site. The State board identifies polluters responsible for contamination within 90 days. Those found liable must bear remediation costs. If polluters cannot pay, the Central and State governments fund cleanup. Criminal liability applies if contamination causes death or damage, under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (2023).
Exemptions and Limitations
The rules exclude radioactive waste, mining pollution, marine oil pollution and solid waste from dump sites. These are governed by separate laws. Another limitation is the absence of strict deadlines to complete remediation once a site is identified. This may affect timely restoration of contaminated lands.
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