How to Report Environmental Violations — Pollution, Dumping, Deforestation

Environmental complaints protect not just you but your entire community. India has strong environmental laws — the challenge is knowing which authority to approach and how to build a compelling case.

1

Document the violation

Photos, videos, GPS coordinates, dates, and the impact on your community. For pollution, note the time, weather conditions, and affected area.

2

File with the State Pollution Control Board

Every state has a SPCB that monitors air, water, and noise pollution. File at your state SPCB website or office. They can issue closure notices and penalties.

3

Use the NGT (National Green Tribunal)

For serious environmental violations, file with the NGT. It has the power to order compensation, restoration, and penalties. Filing is simple and doesn't require a lawyer.

4

File with the forest department

For deforestation, illegal tree cutting, or wildlife violations, contact the District Forest Officer or file at the MoEFCC (moef.gov.in).

5

Create public awareness on OUTCRY

Environmental complaints with strong community support often get media attention and faster government action.

Key Authorities & Helplines

Central Pollution Control Board
India
cpcb.nic.in
National Green Tribunal
India
greentribunal.gov.in
MoEFCC
India
moef.gov.in

Applicable Laws

Environment Protection Act, 1986 — Section 15-17
Penalties for environmental violations
Water (Prevention of Pollution) Act, 1974 — Section 24
Prohibition on water pollution
Air (Prevention of Pollution) Act, 1981 — Section 21
Standards for air quality
NGT Act, 2010 — Section 14-15
Tribunal jurisdiction over environmental disputes

Evidence Checklist

  • Photos/videos with timestamp and GPS
  • Water/air quality test results
  • Impact statements from affected residents
  • Previous complaints to authorities
  • Media reports about the issue

Pro Tips

  • → NGT cases are free to file and decided within 6 months
  • → CPCB has an online complaint portal — file there and at SPCB simultaneously
  • → Environmental violations can also be reported through the SAMEER app (air quality monitoring)

Real Complaints in This Category

Factory dumping chemical waste in river — fish dying, drinking water contaminated
Ahmedabad, India · 30 supporters
Illegal mining destroying forest in Western Ghats — tribal communities losing homeland
Kochi, India · 30 supporters
Corporate farm using banned pesticides — groundwater contaminated in 5 villages
Mumbai, India · 30 supporters
Construction debris being dumped in protected wetland — migratory birds disappearing
Chennai, India · 30 supporters
Oil spill in Brisbane River — wildlife sanctuary downstream, authorities too slow
Melbourne, Australia · 30 supporters

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