Correct Option (d):
The Port Laws Amendment Act, 1997, primarily focused on administrative and regulatory reforms concerning the functioning, governance, and privatization aspects of major ports in India. It did not contain provisions related to environmental protection, pollution control, or conservation.
Incorrect Options:
- The Water (Cess) Act, 1977: This Act was enacted to levy and collect a cess on water consumed by certain industries and local authorities. The funds generated were intended to augment the resources of the Central and State Pollution Control Boards for the prevention and control of water pollution, thereby directly contributing to environmental protection.
- The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980: This legislation was enacted to restrict the de-reservation of forests or the use of forest land for non-forest purposes without prior approval from the Central Government. Its primary objective is to conserve forests and protect biodiversity, making it a key environmental protection law.
- The Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991: Enacted in the aftermath of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, this Act mandates owners handling hazardous substances to take out insurance policies. This ensures immediate relief and compensation to victims of accidents involving such substances. While not a direct pollution control law, it addresses environmental risk management and the consequences of environmental damage, thus falling under the broader ambit of environmental safety.