Notification, amending the Environment Relief Fund (ERF) Scheme 2008, has been issued in exercise of powers conferred under Section 7A of Public Liability Insurance Act (PLIA), 1991.

• Section 7A of PLIA provides for establishment of Environment Relief Fund (ERF), which is utilized for providing immediate relief to victims of accidents involving hazardous substances.

Key Amendments

• Administration: It vests the Environment Relief Fund (ERF) in the Central Government.
• Fund Manager: Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) replaces United India Insurance Company Limited as the fund manager for five years with effect from 1^st January, 2025.
• Disbursement: Fund Manager, in consultation with Central Government, shall develop and maintain an online portal and shall disburse amount as per the order of District Collector or Central Government.
• Investment: ERF amount shall be invested appropriately in public financial institutions and in saving accounts to ensure timely availability of funds.
• Restoration of Environmental Damage: Fund Manager shall earmark the ERF funds for restoration of damage caused due to manufacture, processing, treatment, package, storage, transportation, use, collection, destruction, conversion, transfer etc., of hazardous substances. 
• The accounts of the Relief Fund shall be audited by an independent auditor appointed by the Central Government from the panel approved by the Comptroller and Auditor-General.