Water Act 1974 — Mains Questions

Analyze the effectiveness of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974 in addressing India's water pollution challenges. Discuss the role of judicial activism in strengthening the Act's implementation.

The Water Act 1974 represents India's first attempt at environmental federalism. Examine how Article 252 provided the constitutional foundation for this legislation and its implications for subsequent environmental laws.

Critically evaluate the consent mechanism under the Water Act 1974. How has this regulatory approach evolved to meet contemporary environmental challenges?