Section 9 of EPA : Section 9: Furnishing Of Information To Authorities And Agencies In Certain Cases

Explanation using Example

Imagine a factory that manufactures batteries accidentally experiences a spill of toxic chemicals due to a machinery malfunction. This spill could lead to the discharge of harmful pollutants into a nearby river, exceeding the environmental standards set by law.

Under Section 9 of The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986:

1. The factory manager (the person responsible) must immediately inform the environmental authorities about the spill to alert them of the potential pollution.
2. The factory is also required to assist the authorities by providing manpower or resources to control and mitigate the pollution.

The environmental authorities, upon learning about the spill, either through the factory's intimation or other means, must quickly take action to contain the spill and prevent further environmental damage.

If the authorities incur any expenses in the cleanup process, they can recover these costs from the factory, including interest, as if it were a tax debt.