Mumbai: Real Estate Developers Applaud BMC's Decision to Suspend Construction in Polluted Areas
The real estate sector in Mumbai has welcomed the BMC's decision to pause construction in areas with poor air quality, highlighting the move's potential to reduce environmental impact.
MumbaiAir QualityConstructionReal EstateEnvironmental ManagementReal Estate MumbaiJan 02, 2025
This decision has been met with widespread approval from the real estate community, who see it as a crucial measure to mitigate environmental degradation during construction.
CREDAI-MCHI, a prominent real estate association, has been proactive in communicating this decision to its members.
They have issued an advance intimation detailing the new guidelines and the importance of comprehensive planning and documentation for every construction project.
Developers have been advised to prepare detailed information about each project site to ensure they are in compliance once the guidelines are officially released.
Currently, construction work has been stopped in the Byculla and Borivali East areas due to poor air quality.
The civic body is closely monitoring the AQI in other regions and has issued a 28-point detailed guideline and environmental management plans to ensure compliance.
Non-compliance with these directives could lead to action under Section 52 of the MRTP Act and the filing of police complaints.
Domnic Romell, President of CREDAI-MCHI and Director of Romell Group, emphasized the real estate sector's commitment to adhering to the GRAP IV measures.
'CREDAI-MCHI has been actively working towards environmental sustainability, as evident from our advisory issued two months ago,' Romell stated.
'Developers are implementing measures such as dust barriers, regular water sprinkling, and the use of eco-friendly materials to reduce dust pollution at construction sites.'
While construction may contribute only a small fraction to overall dust pollution, the sector is taking robust steps to ensure minimal environmental impact.
'CREDAI-MCHI members are increasingly adopting Environment Management Plans (EMP), which include continuous air quality monitoring, waste management, and noise reduction protocols,' Romell added.
'We remain steadfast in our commitment to improving the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Mumbai and support all initiatives aimed at creating a healthier and more sustainable urban environment.'
Ritesh Mehta, Senior Director at JLL India, praised the BMC's decision, stating, 'This is a crucial step to prevent Mumbai from facing severe air quality issues similar to Delhi.
Although the move might temporarily affect project timelines, the environmental benefits are substantial.
We fully support this initiative for its focus on sustainability and healthier urban living.'
The real estate community's support for these measures underscores a growing awareness and commitment to environmental responsibility in the construction sector.
The BMC's proactive approach and the industry's readiness to comply highlight a collective effort to improve Mumbai's air quality and create a more sustainable urban environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has the BMC decided to halt construction in areas with poor AQI?
The BMC has decided to halt construction in areas with poor air quality to mitigate environmental impact and reduce dust pollution from construction sites.
What are the AQI levels at which construction will be halted?
Construction will be halted in areas where the Air Quality Index (AQI) is marked as 'poor,' which is an AQI over 200.
What is CREDAI-MCHI's role in this initiative?
CREDAI-MCHI, a real estate association, has been proactive in communicating the BMC's new guidelines to its members and urging them to prepare detailed project information to ensure compliance.
What are some of the measures being implemented by developers to reduce environmental impact?
Developers are implementing measures such as dust barriers, regular water sprinkling, and the use of eco-friendly materials to reduce dust pollution at construction sites.
What are the potential consequences of non-compliance with the BMC's directives?
Non-compliance with the BMC's directives could lead to action under Section 52 of the MRTP Act and the filing of police complaints.
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