Law Updates

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change issued a notification on July 3, 2025, announcing the Environment (Protection) Third Amendment Rules, 2025. These rules amend the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986, to include a new provision in Schedule I. Under serial number 5A, column 4, a new proviso allows for exemptions from the installation of cooling towers in thermal power plants. The Ministry in consultation with the Central Electricity Authority and the Central Pollution Control Board can grant this exemption. The exemption will be provided only after the Ministry records its reasons in writing. The amendment aims to ensure flexibility for thermal power plants while still considering environmental protection measures. The new rules come into force on July 5, 2025, following their publication in the Official Gazette. This amendment addresses environmental concerns related to thermal power plants and provides a pathway for potential exemptions.