Vidhi Codex

The Punjab Water Resources (Management and Regulation) Act, 2020

The Punjab Water Resources (Management and Regulation) Act, 2020

General202039 sections

This legislation establishes the Punjab Water Regulation and Development Authority and the Punjab State Council for Water Management and Development to oversee the sustainable management, conservation, and regulation of water resources across Punjab. It applies to individuals, commercial entities, industries, and local bodies extracting or utilizing surface water and groundwater within the state. The law empowers authorities to issue water conservation directions, mandate registration of extraction structures, implement integrated water plans, and set volumetric tariffs for commercial and industrial water usage while safeguarding domestic drinking needs. It matters by addressing critical groundwater depletion and ensuring equitable, efficient water distribution.

Start reading →Read full ActSections
  1. 1. Short title extent and commencement.
  2. 2. Definitions.
  3. 3. Establishment and incorporation of Authority.
  4. 4. Qualification for appointment of Chairperson and other Members.
  5. 5. Constitution and functions of Selection Committee.
  6. 6. Term of office, salary and allowances and other conditions of service of Chairperson and Members of the Authority.
  7. 7. Removal of Chairperson or Member of Authority.
  8. 8. Staff of the Authority.
  9. 9. Finance and budget of Authority.
  10. 10. Proceedings of Authority.
  11. 11. Vacancy etc. not to invalidate act or proceedings
  12. 12. Advisory Committee
  13. 13. Punjab State Council for Water Management and Development.
  14. 14. Integrated State Water Plan.
  15. 15. Powers to issue directions and impose restrictions.
  16. 16. Exemption from ban on extraction of groundwater.
  17. 17. Tariff for supply and management of water.
  18. 18. Procedure for tariff order.
  19. 19. Information and reports
  20. 20. Power of Authority to appoint enquiry officer
  21. 21. Power of entry and inspection
  22. 22. Power to carry out surveys etc.
  23. 23. Action for non-compliance of directions of the Authority
  24. 24. Punishment for contravention etc.
  25. 25. Offences by companies
  26. 26. Cognizance of offence
  27. 27. Compounding of offences
  28. 28. Directions and recommendations by Government
  29. 29. Assistance to Authority by Government
  30. 30. Members, officers and other staff of Authority to be public servants
  31. 31. Protection of action taken in good faith
  32. 32. Powers of Civil Court
  33. 33. Bar of jurisdiction of courts
  34. 34. Bar to claim compensation
  35. 35. Power to make rules
  36. 36. Power of Authority to make regulations
  37. 37. Annual report
  38. 38. Effect of this Act on other laws
  39. 39. Power to remove difficulties

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