Mumbai is facing a severe air quality crisis, prompting the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to implement stringent measures targeting construction sites. With the Air Quality Index (AQI) frequently exceeding 200, a level classified as "poor," authorities are activating enhanced pollution control measures and threatening immediate shutdowns of construction and industrial activities in highly polluted zones.
The Deteriorating Air Quality
As of November 28, 2025, Mumbai's AQI stands at 232, categorized as "severe". Major pollutants contributing to this alarming level include PM2.5 (133.12 µg/m³) and PM10 (129.22 µg/m³). Several locations across the city, including Bandra, Bandra East, Bandra Kurla Complex, and Deonar, are experiencing "severe" air quality. This poses significant health risks to residents, particularly children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Exposure to such high levels of air pollution can lead to asthma, allergies, sinus issues, and other respiratory problems.
BMC's Crackdown on Construction Sites
The BMC's revised pollution control mechanism stipulates that construction sites in any ward with a consistently high AQI (above 200) will be shut down until the air quality improves. This protocol is part of the city's implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan-4 (GRAP-4), a more stringent intervention designed to address severe pollution spikes. Given that Mumbai has over 1,200 active construction sites, this ruling could cause major disruptions, but it is deemed necessary by environmental experts.
To ensure compliance, the BMC has increased ground-level inspections at construction sites, deploying ward-level squads comprised of engineers, police, and environment officers. These teams monitor adherence to a detailed 28-point checklist aimed at mitigating pollution at each site. Essential measures include full-height tin barricades, real-time air quality monitors, on-site misting or fogging to minimize dust, green net coverings over scaffolding, and tire-wash facilities for trucks. The BMC has warned that sites failing to comply with these rules will face immediate notices, penalties, or suspension of operations. Recent checks have revealed widespread violations, even among major infrastructure projects.
Additional Municipal Commissioner Dr. Ashwini Joshi has directed officials to take strict action against those flouting the guidelines and instructed officials to closely monitor compliance. The BMC is also implementing other measures to combat air pollution, such as switching crematoriums and bakeries to cleaner fuels, expanding the use of electric buses, managing construction debris scientifically, and using misting machines to suppress dust.
Health Impacts and Precautions
Mumbai's high levels of air pollution, particularly nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter, pose significant risks to public health. Exposure to these pollutants can cause respiratory issues, worsen existing heart and lung conditions, and increase the risk of asthma, especially in children.
Given the current air quality, residents are advised to take precautions. Sensitive groups, such as children and people with breathing problems, should limit outdoor activities. It is recommended to wear masks when stepping out and keep windows closed to reduce exposure to pollutants. Maintaining clean indoor air with air purifiers is also advisable.
Moving Towards Prevention
This crackdown marks a turning point in Mumbai's pollution control policy. Instead of merely reacting to pollution, the city is shifting towards preventive, accountable, and data-driven enforcement. Experts believe that consistent implementation of these measures can significantly reduce construction-related pollution and improve overall air quality. The new rules are expected to encourage developers to adopt better construction practices, including the use of prefabricated materials, cleaner machinery, and improved site management.
