What is water prevention and control pollution act 1974?

The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1974 is an Indian legislation aimed at preventing and controlling water pollution and maintaining or restoring the quality of water bodies. It establishes the Central and State Pollution Control Boards to oversee the regulation of water pollution, set standards for discharges, and promote conservation efforts. The Act empowers these boards to take legal action against violators and mandates the treatment of wastewater before it is discharged into water bodies. Ultimately, it seeks to safeguard water resources for public health and environmental sustainability.