Section 23 of WPCPA : Section 23: Power Of Entry And Inspection

Explanation using Example

Imagine a factory situated alongside a river that is suspected of discharging untreated industrial waste into the water, potentially violating the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. An officer empowered by the State Pollution Control Board decides to inspect the factory premises to ensure compliance with the Act.

The officer, along with the necessary assistance, enters the factory grounds during working hours. They start by examining the factory's wastewater treatment plant to ensure it's functioning correctly and that the treated water meets the prescribed standards before being discharged into the river. They also review the factory's records and registers related to waste disposal and environmental management.

During the inspection, the officer finds discrepancies in the records and observes that the treatment plant is not operating as per the norms. Suspecting that the factory may be bypassing the treatment process and directly discharging pollutants into the river, the officer seizes the relevant documents and samples of the untreated waste for evidence. This enforcement of the Act's provisions helps in preventing further pollution of the river.