Mumbai Pollution : Mumbai's air polluted! AQI at 104

(AQI) Mumbai's average Air Quality Index has reached 104 and has been recorded in the 'moderate' category. Experts have attributed this to construction work related to infrastructure projects and changes in weather. On Sunday, Mumbai's average AQI was recorded at 104, while in some areas like Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), it was in the 'severe' category. Experts from IIT and IMD have pointed to large-scale construction projects, pollution from vehicles, and winter weather changes as the main reasons for this increase. It has become clear that pollution from construction and vehicles is mainly responsible for the rise in AQI in Mumbai and its suburbs.

Large-scale development projects underway in the city

In Mumbai, many infrastructure projects are progressing rapidly—from metro railway lines to roads, bridges, and other construction works moving at full speed. Slums, chawls, mills, and industrial areas are also being transformed into skyscrapers, which has accelerated the pace of construction.

What are the ideal AQI levels? AQI classification is as follows:

0–50: Good

51–100: Satisfactory

101–200: Moderate

401–500: Severe

BMC's Action

As air quality continues to deteriorate, BMC has taken several measures to control pollution. BMC had issued 28 guidelines last October.

Metal sheet fencing and green cloth at construction sites

Regular water sprinkling

Proper storage and transportation of debris

Smoke absorption systems

Strict compliance with environmental rules - BMC has recently issued notices to 53 construction sites contributing to increased pollution and ordered them to stop work.