In a concerning development, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Mumbai has been recorded as ‘poor’ at multiple monitoring stations. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board, the AQI exceeded 200 at various locations around 6 am. Notable instances include Bandra station with an AQI of 210 and Malad West station with an AQI of 229. While Borivali East station exhibited ‘moderate’ air quality with an AQI of 144, Chakala-Andheri East station registered a worrisome AQI of 246, categorizing it as ‘poor.’ Meanwhile, Worli station recorded an AQI of 144, falling into the ‘moderate’ category, and Mazgaon station reported poor air quality with an AQI of 207.
BMC Issues Stern Warning and Initiates Pollution Control Measures
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued a stern warning on October 21, highlighting its intent to halt construction activities at all sites if adequate dust and pollution control measures are not put into practice. This decision stems from the deteriorating air quality in Mumbai. The BMC’s official release mentions that comprehensive standard operating procedures and guidelines aimed at improving air quality will be issued by October 23.
Civic Leadership Addresses the Crisis
Iqbal Singh Chahal, the municipal commissioner of Mumbai, revealed that ongoing construction activities are in progress at approximately 6,000 sites throughout the city. Chahal, who serves as the civic body’s administrator, recently convened a crucial meeting with various stakeholders to address the alarming levels of air pollution in the city. The BMC release clearly states, “At all these places where construction is ongoing, dust- and pollution-control measures should be implemented. Otherwise, construction will be stopped, whether it’s private or government work.”
Bold Measures Proposed for Pollution Control
During the meeting, Chahal proposed several key measures to combat air pollution, underlining the urgency of the situation. These measures include enclosing construction sites with 35-foot-high iron sheet barriers, covering under-construction buildings with green cloth or jute sheets, ensuring that sprinkler systems are operational at construction sites within 15 days, and providing anti-smog guns within 30 days.
Collaborative Efforts to Tackle Pollution
The civic body is planning to deploy anti-smog guns on major roads to mitigate air pollution. Additionally, experts from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board and the BMC will conduct thorough assessments of pollution levels caused by refineries, the Tata power plant, and the RCF plant in the city. These collaborative efforts aim to swiftly address the worsening air quality crisis in Mumbai.
In response to the growing concerns regarding air quality, the municipal leadership in Mumbai has taken proactive steps to ensure a healthier environment for its residents. The urgency of these measures underscores the city’s commitment to tackling air pollution and safeguarding the well-being of its people.
