The air quality in Mumbai has severely deteriorated over the past few days, having a serious impact on the health of citizens. In this context, although the municipality has prepared guidelines for air pollution control, it is observed that they are not being followed. In this serious situation, the Mumbai High Court has reprimanded the BMC and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and ordered immediate and concrete steps to be taken.
What did the High Court say?
The bench of Chief Justice Chandrashekhar and Justice Gautam Ankhar clearly stated during the hearing,
"If the situation gets out of hand, nothing will remain under your control. We are not against development, but strict enforcement of rules is necessary to prevent air pollution."
The court reprimanded BMC and MPCB officials, stating that the officials have failed to implement the rules and immediate measures are mandatory for the deteriorating air quality. They also emphasized that the right to live is equal for all citizens and protecting the health of the poor is a primary responsibility.
Legal Orders and Officer Presence
BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani and MPCB Secretary Devendra Singh appeared in court on Tuesday. The court had summoned them in the previous hearing. The court warned the officers that construction or development should not be stopped, but ensuring compliance with the rules is mandatory. If immediate and effective action is not taken, the situation may go out of control.
Health and Safety of Workers
The bench took serious note of the health of construction workers. The court asked the MPCB if any health advisories have been issued for workers operating at hazardous pollution levels. The bench directed that basic safety like masks must be provided to the workers.
These stern remarks from the Mumbai High Court are a major warning for the BMC and MPCB. The increasing air pollution in the city is endangering the lives of citizens, and the court has ordered effective action and strict implementation of environmental regulations. The steps taken to control pollution in Mumbai will have a decisive impact on the city's air quality and the health of its citizens in the coming times.