SRA Issues Pollution Control Notices to 170 Mumbai Projects for Environmental Violations

The Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) has reportedly taken decisive action against ongoing construction projects across Mumbai, issuing notices to 170 developments for failing to comply with air pollution mitigation norms. According to officials, the authority has given developers a 15-day deadline to bring their construction sites into compliance with the city's construction pollution guidelines, warning that failure to do so will result in stop-work notices and possible suspension of construction activities.

Ward-Wise Distribution of Violations

The enforcement action has reportedly affected multiple wards across Mumbai, with the R/North Ward in Dahisar receiving the highest number of notices at 30 projects. According to reports, the P/North East Ward in Malad East received 16 notices, while the S Ward in Bhandup was issued 14 notices. The remaining 110 notices were reportedly distributed across other city wards, highlighting the widespread nature of non-compliance with environmental norms.

Mandatory Environmental Guidelines for Construction Sites

The action follows alleged non-compliance with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)'s 2023 air pollution mitigation guidelines, which were reportedly made mandatory for all construction and demolition sites across Mumbai. As per the 2023 norms outlined by the BMC and reiterated in SRA Circular 213, developers are required to implement several dust control measures at their sites.

According to the guidelines, construction sites must be enclosed on all sides with green cloth, jute sheets, or tarpaulin. For buildings exceeding 70 metres in height, developers must reportedly erect 35-foot-high tin or metal sheets around the perimeter. Demolition structures must allegedly be covered from top to bottom using protective sheeting, while continuous water sprinkling during demolition activities is mandatory. The norms also require the use of anti-smog guns, either stationary or mobile, to control dust during material handling, along with dust suppression measures on debris, earth material, and other dust-generating surfaces.

Growing Concerns Over Non-Compliance

Despite repeated directives, SRA officials have reportedly stated that many developers failed to implement even the basic dust mitigation measures required under Mumbai's redevelopment guidelines. Most sites allegedly lacked protective enclosures and active water-spraying mechanisms, leading to high levels of airborne particulate matter, especially in dense residential areas near slum redevelopment sites.

Mahendra Kalyankar, CEO of SRA, has reportedly emphasized the authority's serious approach to pollution norms. According to statements attributed to him, the SRA has issued these notices under Circular 213 and given project proponents 15 days to comply, warning that construction activity will be halted if they fail to act.

Impact on Public Health and Urban Sustainability

Mumbai has reportedly witnessed a noticeable dip in air quality over the past year, with construction-related dust being identified as a major contributor. With a large number of SRA projects operating in close proximity to populated slum clusters, the need for strict adherence to environmental norms is reportedly urgent for both public health and urban sustainability. The BMC's pollution guidelines are allegedly aligned with national mandates for improving Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in metropolitan cities, and enforcement is now being seen as a critical step towards ensuring safer construction practices, similar to the waste management initiatives in Dahisar.

Compliance Summary

Next Steps in Enforcement Process

Developers who have received notices are reportedly expected to submit compliance reports detailing on-site implementation of pollution control mechanisms. According to officials, joint inspections will allegedly be conducted after the 15-day period to verify compliance. This enforcement action reflects a broader trend of stricter regulatory oversight in Maharashtra, with authorities increasingly taking action to ensure developers adhere to environmental and construction regulations.

Disclaimer: This article is based on information reportedly issued by the Slum Rehabilitation Authority and related government sources. Readers are advised to verify all details independently and consult with relevant authorities or legal experts before making any decisions based on this information. The information provided is for general awareness purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice.