Maharashtra pollution control board mandates air quality monitoring for construction sites

To combat rising air pollution, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has made it mandatory for all construction sites in Mumbai and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) to install sensor-based air quality monitors. Developers must comply with this directive within a month or face penalties, including fines and potential site closures. This step aims to ensure real-time air pollution tracking and accountability in the construction sector.

Why This Mandate?

Mumbai’s air quality has been deteriorating due to various factors, including vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, and waste burning. However, construction dust remains a major contributor to poor air quality. Unregulated construction activities release large amounts of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), leading to severe health concerns such as respiratory diseases, asthma, and bronchitis. By implementing air quality monitors, authorities can track pollution levels at construction sites and take necessary action when pollution thresholds are exceeded.

Implementation & Compliance

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has been assigned the responsibility of ensuring compliance. The BMC’s environment department has issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for officials to oversee pollution control measures at construction sites. In addition to installing air quality monitors, developers must follow dust control measures like water sprinkling, covering construction materials, and proper debris management. Non-compliance with these regulations may result in strict action against the violators.

Expected Impact

Real-time air quality tracking will help identify pollution hotspots, allowing authorities to take corrective actions swiftly. This move ensures greater accountability among developers and reinforces environmental responsibility in urban planning. If implemented effectively, this initiative will contribute significantly to improving Mumbai’s air quality, making the city healthier for its residents.