BMC Issues Stop-Work Notices to Construction Sites Amid Rising Air Quality Concerns

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken significant action by issuing stop-work notices to two construction sites found violating air pollution control guidelines. This initiative highlights the urgent need for compliance with environmental regulations, especially as the city's air quality continues to decline.

BMC officials focused on construction activities in Vile Parle and JB Nagar in Andheri East due to resident complaints about excessive dust and debris. In response, the civic body sent special teams to inspect the sites. The inspections found that these construction sites had not implemented necessary measures to control dust and particulate emissions.

At the JB Nagar site, active demolition work was underway, resulting in debris falling onto a nearby residential area. Meanwhile, the Vile Parle site lacked adequate dust control measures, significantly contributing to airborne dust levels. Manish Valanju, assistant commissioner of the K East Ward, noted that the lack of proper dust control measures necessitated the issuance of stop-work orders. The demolition activities were not adequately contained, leading to significant dust pollution that could have been avoided with the proper precautions.

The violations are related to guidelines set by the BMC to reduce air pollution, especially during the poor air quality months of November and December. Issued on October 25, 2023, these guidelines require construction sites taller than 70 meters to be enclosed with tin or metal sheets at least 35 feet high. Additionally, all demolition activities must be covered with tarpaulin, and continuous water sprinkling is required to reduce dust emissions.

The BMC is intensifying its efforts to enforce these protocols as the city prepares for a potential worsening of air quality in the coming months. The decision to issue stop-work notices is part of a broader strategy to ensure compliance with air pollution mitigation measures, thereby protecting public health.

Both construction companies involved—Chandak Realtors Pvt. Ltd. in Andheri East and Kamala Homes & Lifestyle Pvt. Ltd. in Vile Parle—received stop-work notices under Section 354A of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act. The notices mandated an immediate halt to construction activities and required the developers to provide evidence of compliance with the approved guidelines within 24 hours. Non-compliance could lead to severe penalties, including the removal of construction materials and equipment from the site at the developers' expense.

The BMC's notice made it clear that non-compliance would not be tolerated, emphasizing that if construction activities were not halted or if the directives were not followed, all materials and equipment used on-site would be removed at the developers' risk and cost, without further notice.

The swift action taken by the BMC reflects the growing concern among residents regarding air quality issues in Mumbai. Citizens have increasingly voiced dissatisfaction with the impacts of construction activities on their health and environment. The rising levels of dust and pollution from construction sites present serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

As air quality levels in Mumbai hover in the very poor category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 357, it is crucial for authorities and construction companies to take responsibility. The BMC's emphasis on enforcing guidelines underscores the importance of sustainable construction practices that prioritize public health and environmental well-being.