How Mumbai's New Construction Guidelines Aim to Tackle Air Pollution

As air quality levels in Mumbai reached alarming lows, the city has taken decisive steps to address one of the key contributors: construction-related pollution. With new guidelines and targeted measures, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is striving to strike a balance between urban development and environmental sustainability.

Here’s how these changes are paving the way for cleaner air in Mumbai.

1. New Guidelines Target Construction-Related Pollution

In light of worsening air quality, Mumbai’s Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has introduced stricter guidelines for construction activities. The rules prohibit the use of wood or similar materials as fuel for cooking on construction sites and ban lighting bonfires. Additionally, the transportation of construction debris without proper permissions or adequate covering is strictly forbidden.

2. Alarming Air Quality Prompts Action

Mumbai’s Air Quality Index (AQI) recently plummeted to hazardous levels, ranging from 120 to 258 in some areas. Specific regions like Colaba (285), Mazgaon (276), and BKC (212) recorded the worst AQI readings. To combat these alarming levels, a comprehensive action plan has been implemented to address both major and minor sources of pollution.

3. Focus on Controlling Dust from Roads and Construction

The solid waste management department has been tasked with minimizing dust pollution, especially near construction zones.

Key measures include:

Deploying mechanical power sweeping machines. Installing water sprinklers in high-traffic areas. Encouraging the use of the "Debris-on-Call" service for debris removal. Monitoring and regulating vehicles transporting construction materials.

4. Strict Enforcement of Rules

To ensure compliance, BMC has instructed its assistant engineers to oversee the implementation of these measures. Violators of the new rules will face strict penalties. Clean-up teams and "clean marshals" have been deployed to ensure effective enforcement and prevent air quality violations.

5. Road Washing to Reduce Dust

As part of the initiative, over 250 kilometers of roads in Mumbai have been cleaned using water. This step aims to minimize dust particles contributing to air pollution, especially in high-traffic zones.

6. Mumbai’s Air Quality Compared to Delhi

While Mumbai’s air quality is poor, it remains relatively better than Delhi’s. However, experts emphasize that the city’s substandard air quality still poses significant health risks to residents, necessitating immediate and sustained efforts to improve it.

Conclusion - Aiming for Cleaner Air in Mumbai

Mumbai’s new construction rules and dust control measures reflect the city’s commitment to tackling air pollution. With stricter enforcement and innovative initiatives, these guidelines are a critical step toward improving air quality and protecting public health.