What is the water cess for industries operating in Gorakhpur?

Detailed Legal Analysis

The water cess for industries operating in Gorakhpur is governed by the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977, which mandates the collection of cess on water consumed by industries for various purposes.

The cess is applicable to all industries that utilize water in their production processes, and the rates are determined based on the type of usage. The primary objective of the cess is to promote conservation of water and ensure its sustainable use, while generating revenue to support pollution control measures.

Here are the key points regarding water cess for industries in Gorakhpur:

• Applicable Industries: All industries that consume water for manufacturing, processing, cooling, or any other purpose are required to pay water cess.
• Rate of Cess: As per the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977, the rates of cess are determined based on water usage:
  • For industrial use: ₹2 per kiloliter for water used in manufacturing processes.
  • For cooling purposes: ₹0.5 per kiloliter.
  • For other uses: Generally, ₹0.5 per kiloliter applies.
• Payment Frequency: The cess is to be paid on a quarterly basis, and industries must file returns detailing their water consumption during the preceding quarter.
• Return Filing: Industries are required to submit returns in Form I as specified under the Water Cess Rules, 1978, which includes details of water consumption and the corresponding cess payable.
• Compliance and Penalties: Non-compliance with the payment of water cess can lead to penalties, including fines or other legal actions as prescribed under Section 9 of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977.
• Exemptions: Certain categories of industries may be exempt from cess based on specific criteria, which should be verified with the state pollution control board.

Industries in Gorakhpur must ensure compliance with the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977, to avoid penalties and contribute to environmental conservation. It is advisable for industries to stay updated with any changes in the cess rates and regulations as notified by the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board.