The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken a proactive step in addressing the escalating concerns over air pollution in Mumbai by issuing comprehensive pollution control guidelines to approximately 6,000 construction sites within the city. These measures are aimed at curbing the dispersal of dust and pollutants during the construction process, ensuring a concerted effort to mitigate the environmental impact and prioritize the health and well-being of the residents. By implementing these guidelines, the BMC seeks to foster a cleaner and more sustainable construction environment while maintaining the city's air quality standards.
Due to the deteriorating air quality in Mumbai over the past few days, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has released instructions to 6,000 construction sites in the city, both private real estate projects and infrastructure developments.
The guidelines stipulate that sites larger than one acre must maintain a 35-foot barricade, while those smaller than one acre should have a 25-foot barricade. Moreover, regardless of the construction stage, green cloth or jute sheet coverings must be implemented at all construction sites.
Failure to comply will result in a stop-work notice from the BMC. Additionally, the BMC emphasized the mandatory installation of a sprinkler system for dust control, along with regular misting throughout the day.
In a meeting on October 20 led by Municipal Commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal, real estate developers and various agencies involved in infrastructure works were in attendance. To combat the adverse impact of climate change on air quality, the BMC has outlined a series of measures, including the compulsory installation of anti-smog machines within 15 days and the activation of anti-smog machines to minimize dust on Mumbai's roads.
Each construction site is required to have its own air quality index (AQI) measurement system, according to the statement issued on October 20. Presently, Mumbai boasts approximately 6,000 construction sites, encompassing road infrastructure projects, Metro rail projects, and other real estate endeavours.
While conducting the demolition of existing structures, it is recommended to cover the building to prevent the dispersion of dust into the atmosphere. It is essential to ensure that vehicles are not overloaded, and the installation of CCTV cameras at the sites is necessary for monitoring vehicle cleanliness, including tire cleaning and washing. These directives are applicable to both private and government projects.
Chahal has further directed the establishment of dedicated teams for inspecting construction sites across all 24 administrative divisions of the municipal corporation. At least 50 teams should be designated in each ward, conducting surprise visits to the construction sites, and recording live videos. He emphasized that any shortcomings in the prescribed measures will lead to an immediate stop-work notice for the concerned construction site, he emphasized.
Shirish Aradwad, the additional city engineer of NMMC, stated that a penalty of Rs 10/sqm will be imposed on non-compliant builders. He added that their teams will be inspecting construction sites, companies, and quarries to identify the sources of pollution.
In response to the pressing issue of air pollution, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's proactive implementation of pollution control guidelines across 6,000 construction sites in Mumbai serves as a testament to the city's commitment to environmental preservation and public health. These measures, including strict monitoring, the implementation of anti-smog machinery, and stringent penalties for non-compliance, underscore the BMC's dedication to fostering a cleaner and more sustainable construction landscape. By prioritizing pollution control and proactive measures, the BMC aims to ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for the vibrant metropolitan hub of Mumbai.
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
