Mumbai, Oct 7, 2024: The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has issued comprehensive guidelines aimed at mitigating air pollution in Mumbai, addressing the city’s recent decline in air quality as evidenced by the shift in the Air Quality Index (AQI) from ‘good’ to ‘moderate’.
With the onset of drier weather and the festival season approaching, experts warn of a potential further deterioration in air quality. This proactive initiative comes as particulate matter concentrations reached alarming levels, with certain areas experiencing PM2.5 readings exceeding permissible limits by three to four times, as reported by IndiaSpend. This notice is directed to all commissioners and chief officers, divisional commissioners, commissioners of police, transport commissioners, and the state transport commissioner.
During a recent analysis, PM2.5 levels in various localities, including Malad, Colaba, and Borivali, were recorded at 138, 253, and 157, respectively. This underscores the urgent need for enhanced air quality management strategies, particularly as ongoing construction activities and adverse weather conditions have intensified pollution.
Siddhesh Ramdas Kadam, Chairman, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, "As Mumbai tackles air pollution, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board is dedicated to implementing strong guidelines that prioritize public health and environmental sustainability. Our approach focuses on effective management strategies during heightened construction activity and seasonal changes. By implementing these regulations, we aim to protect our citizens' well-being and improve air quality. With the support of local authorities and the community, we can make significant progress toward a cleaner, healthier Mumbai."
Project proponents are required to erect 25-foot high tin or metal sheets around the periphery of construction sites exceeding 50 meters in height. For sites over one acre, this regulation also applies.
All construction sites must be enclosed with wet green cloth, jute sheets, or tarpaulin, and structures under demolition must be similarly covered, with continuous water spraying to reduce airborne dust.
Effective water fogging and sprinkling must be carried out during loading and unloading of materials, and all construction sites must ensure the regular spraying of water on debris to minimize particulate matter release.
Vehicles transporting construction materials must be fully covered and equipped with vehicle tracking systems. Additionally, these vehicles must adhere to weight limits to prevent spillage.
Sensor-based air pollution monitors must be deployed at all construction sites, with real-time data made available for municipal inspection.
Special enforcement squads will be established by District Collectors to ensure compliance. Non-compliance will result in immediate action, including stop work notices and site sealing.
The guidelines also include measures to transition bakeries and crematoria to cleaner technologies, reinforcing the commitment to public health.
The MPCB will monitor compliance rigorously, with stringent penalties in place for violators, and will continue to engage with local authorities, including the BMC and municipal commissioners, to ensure the successful implementation of these measures.
