Construction Work Halted in Byculla and Borivali East to Combat Poor Air Quality
Mumbai, often known for its bustling urban life, has recently been battling a significant rise in air pollution. In response to the deteriorating air quality in key areas of the city, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken the drastic step of halting construction work in Byculla and Borivali East. This decision comes after the Air Quality Index (AQI) in these locations consistently exceeded safe limits, prompting concerns for public health and safety.
On Monday, Bhushan Gagrani, the Commissioner of the BMC, announced that construction activities, both private and government-led, including those managed by the civic body itself, would be suspended in these areas. The measure will remain in effect until the AQI improves to a safer level. Gagrani, who also serves as the chairperson of the Bombay High Court-appointed air quality monitoring committee, stated that non-compliance with this directive would result in legal action under Section 52 of the Maharashtra Regional Town Planning Act. Additionally, police complaints would be filed against offenders. The decision to stop construction work in Byculla and Borivali East is part of a broader initiative by the BMC to combat the worsening air quality in Mumbai, which has been a growing concern for residents and authorities alike. The AQI in Byculla, a prominent residential area, recently peaked at 170, placing it in the “moderately polluted” category. For reference, the AQI system has six categories: good (0-50), satisfactory (51-100), moderately polluted (101-200), poor (201-300), very poor (301-400), and severe (401-500). An AQI above 200, which is consistently seen in Byculla and Borivali East, falls into the “poor” category, which can have adverse effects on the health of sensitive individuals, especially those with respiratory conditions.
To tackle the root causes of air pollution, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has issued notices to all ready-mix concrete (RMC) plants operating in Mumbai and its adjoining metropolitan regions. With over 500 RMC plants supplying concrete for ongoing construction projects, these plants are significant contributors to pollution. The MPCB has directed that all RMC plants must install sheds to cover 100 per cent of their operational areas in a bid to reduce dust emissions, a major pollutant at construction sites. These proactive measures reflect a growing recognition of the need to balance Mumbai’s rapid urbanisation with environmental responsibility. With thousands of construction projects underway, the city faces the challenge of curbing pollution without stalling its progress. The BMC’s action, while disruptive, aims to prioritise the health and well-being of Mumbai’s residents by addressing the dangerous levels of airborne particles in these two key areas.
The suspension of construction is not the only step being taken. The BMC has also called on residents to take precautionary measures to protect themselves from the harmful effects of poor air quality. This includes limiting outdoor activities, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. As the situation unfolds, the BMC continues to monitor the air quality and plans to lift the construction ban once the AQI returns to a safer level. This move underscores the city’s commitment to protecting its residents from the impacts of air pollution, even as it strives to accommodate its ever-expanding urban landscape.
