What is the water cess for industries operating in Mysore?

Detailed Legal Analysis

The water cess for industries operating in Mysore is governed by the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977. Under this Act, industries are required to pay a cess for the water they consume, which is used to fund water pollution control measures.

Key points regarding water cess in Mysore include:

• Applicable Industries: All industries that draw water from any source for their operations are subjected to water cess, including manufacturing units, service industries, and others, as defined under Section 2 of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977.
• Cess Rates: The cess rates vary based on the type of water source utilized. As per the latest amendments, the rates are generally as follows:
• For water drawn from a river or stream: ₹3 per kiloliter
• For water drawn from a lake: ₹4 per kiloliter
• For water drawn from groundwater: ₹6 per kiloliter
• For water drawn from any other source: ₹5 per kiloliter
• Payment Frequency: The cess is typically payable quarterly, and industries must submit their payment along with a return to the state pollution control board as per the guidelines set forth in the Water Cess Rules, 1978.
• Registration Requirement: Industries must register with the respective State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) to determine their cess liability. Registration is governed under Rule 5 of the Water Cess Rules, 1978.
• Exemptions: Certain categories of industries may be exempt from cess, such as those utilizing water solely for domestic purposes or those falling under specific government exemptions.
• Punitive Measures: Non-payment or delayed payment of water cess can attract penalties as per Section 12 of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977, which may include fines or legal action by the SPCB.

Industries must remain compliant with these provisions to avoid penalties and contribute to the sustainable management of water resources in Mysore. For more detailed guidance, businesses should consult the local SPCB or legal advisors familiar with environmental regulations.