Pollution Control Board Licence In Jharkhand

What is a Pollution Control Board Licence?

A Pollution Control Board (PCB) Licence is a mandatory environmental clearance issued by the Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board (JSPCB) to industries and establishments that may cause air, water, or environmental pollution.

Why is PCB Approval Mandatory in Jharkhand?

• Ensures compliance with the Water Act 1974, Air Act 1981, and Environment Protection Act 1986
• Protects the environment and public health from industrial pollution
• Mandatory for obtaining operational and trade licences
• Required for securing project financing and government approvals

Role of JSPCB

The Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board is the regulatory authority responsible for:

• Issuing Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO)
• Monitoring industrial compliance with environmental norms
• Conducting inspections and taking enforcement action
• Processing renewals and amendments

⚠️ Penalty Alert: Operating without valid PCB consent can lead to:

• • Hefty fines up to ₹1 lakh per day
• • Closure orders and business shutdown
• • Criminal prosecution under environmental laws
• • Imprisonment up to 7 years in serious cases

Q.Is PCB licence mandatory in Jharkhand?

Yes, PCB licence (CTE/CTO) is mandatory for all industries and establishments listed under Water Act 1974, Air Act 1981, and Environment Protection Act 1986. Operating without valid consent can result in penalties, closure orders, and legal action.

Q.What is the difference between CTE and CTO?

CTE (Consent to Establish) is required before starting construction or installation of an industrial project. CTO (Consent to Operate) is required after project completion to commence commercial operations. You need CTE first during project phase, then CTO for actual operations.

Q.How long does JSPCB approval take?

Approval timeline varies by category: Green Category: 30-45 days | Orange Category: 45-60 days | Red Category: 60-90 days or more. Timeline depends on application completeness, site inspection results, and department workload.

Q.What is the validity period of PCB licence?

CTO validity ranges from 1 to 10 years based on category and compliance record: Red Category: 1-3 years | Orange Category: 3-5 years | Green Category: 5-10 years. Regular renewals are required to maintain legal operations.

Q.What is the penalty for operating without JSPCB consent?

Penalties include: (1) Fine up to ₹1 lakh per day of non-compliance (2) Closure/stop work orders (3) Criminal prosecution under environmental laws (4) Imprisonment up to 7 years in serious cases (5) Blacklisting for future approvals. It's critical to obtain and maintain valid consent.

Q.Can I start construction with only CTE approval?

Yes, CTE (Consent to Establish) allows you to start construction and installation of pollution control equipment. However, you cannot commence commercial operations until you obtain CTO (Consent to Operate) after project completion and inspection.