Mumbai: BMC Takes Ward-Level Action to Tackle Air Pollution
Following the Bombay High Court's criticism, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has intensified its efforts to control air pollution with ward-level inspections and strict regulations for construction sites.
MumbaiBmcAir PollutionConstruction SitesWardlevel MeasuresReal Estate MumbaiJan 29, 2025
After being reprimanded by the Bombay High Court for its failure to control air pollution, the civic body has launched a series of ward-level measures to address the issue effectively.
In a recent meeting, Additional Municipal Commissioner, Ashwini Joshi, instructed Assistant Municipal Commissioners (AMC) of all 24 civic wards to implement stricter monitoring and enforcement at construction sites.
The focus is on ensuring that contractors adhere to environmental norms, such as installing green covers, using water sprinklers, and deploying mist machines to control dust pollution.
“The 95 squads spread across the 24 wards will conduct regular inspections of construction sites.
Warnings will be issued to offenders, and repeat offenders can face legal action under the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning (MRPT) Act,” an officer from BMC’s environment department explained.
Moreover, the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) will now receive time-bound permissions for building demolitions to ensure that debris is disposed of promptly, thereby minimizing dust pollution.
Ward officers will be informed about these demolitions, and the Solid Waste Management department will be involved to ensure proper and timely disposal of construction waste.
“The BMC is taking these actions in compliance with the Bombay High Court’s directive to implement immediate and effective measures to reduce air pollution in the city.
Earlier this month, the court criticized the Maharashtra government and the BMC for their inadequate efforts to curb pollution levels in Mumbai and nearby areas,” the officer added.
In addition to construction site regulations, the BMC has also initiated a prosecution process against 102 illegal bakeries in the city.
These bakeries, which use coal and wood, have been ordered to switch to green fuels within six months.
This move is part of the broader strategy to target major contributors to air pollution.
The BMC’s proactive approach is a positive step towards improving air quality in Mumbai, and it is hoped that these measures will have a lasting impact on the city’s environment.
Continuous monitoring and strict enforcement will be crucial to ensure the success of these initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the BMC taking ward-level measures to control air pollution?
The BMC is taking ward-level measures to control air pollution following the Bombay High Court's criticism for inadequate efforts. These measures include stricter monitoring and enforcement at construction sites to ensure compliance with environmental norms.
What specific actions are being taken at construction sites?
Specific actions include regular inspections by 95 squads spread across 24 wards, requiring contractors to install green covers, use water sprinklers, and deploy mist machines to control dust pollution. Repeat offenders can face legal action under the MRPT Act.
How will MHADA buildings be managed to reduce dust pollution?
MHADA will receive time-bound permissions for building demolitions to ensure debris is disposed of promptly. Ward officers and the Solid Waste Management department will be involved to ensure proper and timely disposal of construction waste.
What is the BMC doing to address pollution from bakeries?
The BMC has initiated a prosecution process against 102 illegal bakeries and ordered them to switch to green fuels within six months. This is part of the broader strategy to target major contributors to air pollution.
How will these measures impact air quality in Mumbai?
These measures are expected to significantly improve air quality in Mumbai by reducing dust pollution from construction sites and other major contributors. Continuous monitoring and strict enforcement will be crucial for the success of these initiatives.
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