Extension for Filing Returns under Hazardous Waste Rules: All You Need to Know

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEF&CC), has recently extended the timeline for filing quarterly and annual returns under the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Amendment Rules, 2022. This move aims to ease regulatory compliance for registered entities, especially those operating under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework for waste tyres. This blog provides complete insights into the update, compliance expectations, and necessary actions to avoid penalties.

Timelines Extended for FY 2024–25

In a recent notification dated July 14, 2025, CPCB announced the extension of the deadline to August 15, 2025 for filing quarterly and annual returns for the Financial Year 2024–25. Previously, the filing deadline had been extended till June 30, 2025, but the current amendment offers additional relief for all registered stakeholders under the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Amendment Rules, 2022.

Key Portal: Waste Tyre EPR Portal – https://eprtyres.cpcb.gov.in

Who Must Comply?

All entities registered under the following must comply with the extended return filing deadline:

Waste Tyre EPR stakeholders
Units governed by the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules
Producers, importers, and recyclers operating under the EPR framework

Why the Extension Matters

The deadline extension provides much-needed flexibility. However, stakeholders must not interpret it as leniency. The CPCB has clearly warned that failure to file returns by the new deadline will invite action under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Therefore, this period must be utilized wisely to:

Reconcile records
Update data on the portal
Ensure accuracy in quarterly and annual reports
Generate and transfer EPR Certificates efficiently

What Happens During the Extension?

During the extended period up to August 15, 2025:

EPR Certificate generation and transfer will continue on the portal.
Entities must complete pending filings and validate their EPR transactions.
CPCB will monitor portal activity for non-compliance.

It’s essential to remember that this is not a grace period but a regulatory window for proactive compliance.

Avoiding Non-Compliance: Best Practices

To remain on the right side of environmental regulations:

Log into the EPR Portal regularly.
Cross-verify data before submission.
Ensure submission of accurate returns by the new deadline.
Download proof of filing for records and audit purposes.
Stay updated with CPCB notifications and amendments.

What Lies Ahead?

With increasing focus on sustainability and circular economy, EPR compliance is now central to India’s waste management strategy. This timeline extension is a clear reminder that while CPCB supports ease of compliance, accountability will not be compromised. Entities should expect stricter surveillance post-deadline and ensure they don’t default.

Conclusion: Final Window for Compliance

The CPCB’s decision to extend the timeline until August 15, 2025 is a final opportunity for entities to align with the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Amendment Rules, 2022. It reflects both regulatory flexibility and an expectation of strict compliance moving forward. Act now to avoid penalties, secure your compliance standing, and contribute to responsible waste management in India.

Download: Hazardous Waste Return Filing Deadline Extended Again