Cabinet nod for new National Environmental Bill

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Cabinet of Ministers granted approval for the new National Environmental Bill, the Ministry of Environment said. Under the new amendments to the National Environmental Act No. 47 of 1980, a proposal was submitted to increase the fines charged from those who violate the environmental law, Specialist Dr. Anil Jasinghe, the Secretary to the Ministry of Environment told News 1st on Thursday (Jun. 10). At present, the fine charged for offences in violation of the National Environmental Act is within the Rs. 5000 range and as per the new Environmental Bill, the fine will be increased up to Rs. 100,000. Moreover, permission will be granted to charge fines from those who use lapsed Environmental Protection Licenses (EPL), subject to the relevant date of expiration. The word "Wetlands," which has hitherto been a shortcoming was defined through the Environmental Bill; the bill further includes several new regulations for the proper management of chemical substances, Dr. Anil Jasinghe elaborated. Following cabinet approval, the Environmental Bill will now be tabled in parliament. The National Environment Policy and the Action Plan will also be submitted for cabinet approval in the future, Environment Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe further noted.