“Supreme Court upholds Pollution Boards’ power to levy environmental damages”
The Supreme Court ruled that Pollution Control Boards can impose and collect restitutionary or compensatory damages, including fixed sums or bank guarantees, under Sections 33A and 31A of the Water and Air Acts, reversing the Delhi High Court’s restrictive interpretation.
Court:
Supreme Court of India
Case:
Delhi Pollution Control Committee (Appellant) vs. Lodhi Property Co. Ltd. etc. (Respondents)
Date of Judgement:
August 04, 2025
Act:
Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 & Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 (Sections 33A & 31A)