2022 GS4 Answer

Q. You are appointed as an officer heading the section in Environment Pollution Control Board to ensure compliance and its follow-up.

In that region, there were large number of small and medium industries which had been granted clearance. You learnt that these industries provide employment to many migrant worker. Most of the industrial units have got environmental clearance certificate in their possession. The environmental clearance seeks to curb industries and projects that supposedly hamper environment and living species in the region, But in practice. most of these units remain to be polluting units in several ways like air, water and soil pollution. As such, local people encountered persistent health problems.

It was confirmed that majority of the industries were violating environmental compliance. You issued notice to all the industrial units to apply for fresh environmental clearance certificate from the competent authority. However, your action met with hostile response from a section of the industrial units, other vested interest persons and a section of the local politicians. The workers also became hostile to you as they felt that your action would lead to the closure of these industrial units, and the resultant unemployment will lead to insecurity uncertainty in their livelihood. Many owners of the industries approached you with the plea that you should not initiate harsh action as it would compel them their units, and cause huge financial loss, shortage of their products in the market. These would obviously add to the sufferings of the labourers and the consumers alike. The labour union also sent you representation requesting against the closure of the units. You simultaneously started receiving threats from unknown corners. You however received supports from some of your colleagues, who advised you to act freely to ensure environmental compliance. Local NGOs also came to your support and they demanded the closure of the polluting units immediately.

(a) What are the options available to you under the given situation?
(b) Critically examine the options listed by you.
(c) What type of mechanism would you suggest to ensure environmental compliance?
(d) What are the ethical dilemmas you faced in exercising your option?

Question from UPSC Mains 2022 GS4 Paper

Model Answer: 

(a) Options available to you under the given situation:

Take strict action against the polluting industrial units, including revoking their environmental clearance certificates.
Consider the economic implications of closure of these industries and work towards finding a middle ground.
Work with the industrial units to implement measures to reduce pollution and ensure compliance.
Engage with local NGOs and stakeholders to create awareness about the harmful effects of pollution and work towards finding sustainable solutions.

(b) Critical examination of the options listed by you:

Take strict action against the polluting industrial units, including revoking their environmental clearance certificates: This option would involve taking strict action against the industrial units that are violating environmental compliance. While it would uphold the principles of environmental protection and justice, it could lead to job losses and economic hardships for the workers and the local community.

Consider the economic implications of closure of these industries and work towards finding a middle ground: This option would involve considering the economic implications of closure of these industries and working towards finding a middle ground that ensures compliance while also preserving jobs and economic growth. While it would balance the interests of all stakeholders, it could lead to compromises on environmental protection and justice.

Work with the industrial units to implement measures to reduce pollution and ensure compliance: This option would involve working with the industrial units to implement measures to reduce pollution and ensure compliance. While it would uphold the principles of environmental protection and justice, it could be difficult to enforce and could be seen as a lenient approach towards polluters.

Engage with local NGOs and stakeholders to create awareness about the harmful effects of pollution and work towards finding sustainable solutions: This option would involve engaging with local NGOs and stakeholders to create awareness about the harmful effects of pollution and work towards finding sustainable solutions. While it would uphold the principles of environmental protection and justice, it could be time-consuming and may not result in immediate action.

(c) Mechanism to ensure environmental compliance:

To ensure environmental compliance, a mechanism should be put in place that includes:

Regular monitoring and inspection of industrial units by trained officials.
Strict enforcement of environmental laws and regulations.
Imposing penalties on violators to deter future violations.
Encouraging adoption of cleaner technologies and best practices.
Creating awareness among the public and stakeholders about the harmful effects of pollution and the need for compliance.

(d) Ethical dilemmas faced:

The ethical dilemma faced by the officer is balancing the interests of environmental protection and justice with the economic interests and livelihoods of workers and local communities. Additionally, the officer may also face threats and pressure from vested interests to ignore environmental violations, which could compromise their integrity and commitment to their role.

Overall, the officer must prioritize their commitment to environmental protection and justice while also considering the economic implications and finding a middle ground that balances the interests of all stakeholders.

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