MUMBAI: In response to criticism regarding late warnings to construction sites that failed to install AQI monitors, the BMC stated it has mobilized ward-level squads to monitor compliance with 28-point guidelines.
Civic officials mentioned that show cause and stop work notices are being issued to non-compliant construction sites.
“In September alone, we issued 314 notices, comprising 275 show cause notices and 39 stop work notices, to construction sites citywide. This process is ongoing, with squads regularly visiting to ensure guidelines are being followed. Additionally, notices are being issued to sites that have yet to install AQI monitors,” remarked a civic official.
Former corporator Ravi Raja expressed on X that Mumbai has faced severe air pollution for the last two winters, yet the BMC delayed action against over 600 construction sites ignoring a June directive on installing sensor-based air monitors until October 28. He highlighted that fewer than half of the city’s construction sites complied with the directive.
Raja stressed that public health should not be sacrificed for builder interests, calling for immediate fines and stop-work orders. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that construction sites adhere to guidelines while the installation of sensor-based AQI monitors is implemented. “Although these monitors are crucial for tracking air quality on-site, immediate compliance with guidelines is essential. The process of setting up AQI monitors according to BMC specifications, and integrating them with the civic air quality system, will take time. We have released specifications to ensure quality sensors are installed,” a senior civic official commented.
