**Mumbai Civic Body Halts Construction in Borivali East Due to Pollution**
Mumbai, December 30, 2024: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken decisive action against the rising pollution levels in Borivali East by halting all construction activities in the area. This move comes in response to the continuous Air Quality Index (AQI) readings above 200, indicating a severe threat to public health.
BMC’s Urgent Measures
BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani announced the temporary suspension of construction work in Borivali East until the Dust Mitigation Guidelines are strictly followed. The decision was made after a meeting held on Monday to address the deteriorating air quality in the city. Gagrani highlighted the significant role of construction dust, vehicular emissions, and climate change in exacerbating the pollution levels.
Immediate Actions
To combat the pollution crisis, BMC has rolled out a series of urgent measures. They have installed 45 air quality control machines across Mumbai to monitor real-time air quality and identify pollution hotspots. Additionally, the civic body has mandated all departments to assess the impact of air pollution and climate change collectively. Detailed guidelines and environmental management plans have been released to ensure compliance with pollution control measures at construction sites.
Long-Term Strategies
In a bid to address the root causes of air pollution, BMC is collaborating with government agencies and stakeholders to implement long-term strategies. These include converting wood/coal-based bakery units and crematoriums to clean fuels, procuring electric buses for public transport, and penalizing open burning of waste. The Municipal Corporation is also planning to enhance road quality, promote sustainable urban transport, and introduce dust absorption plants for effective dust control.
Citizen Engagement
BMC has called upon citizens to support their efforts by adopting eco-friendly practices in their daily lives. Residents are encouraged to use public transport, refrain from burning garbage in the open, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to mitigate the impact of air pollution. The civic body has emphasized the importance of avoiding strenuous physical activities during high pollution days, refraining from bursting firecrackers, and seeking medical help if experiencing respiratory issues.
As Mumbai grapples with escalating pollution levels, BMC’s proactive measures underscore the significance of collective action in safeguarding public health and the environment. By prioritizing pollution control and sustainability, the city aims to create a cleaner, healthier future for its residents.
Now, the challenge lies in the community’s response to BMC’s call-to-action. Will Mumbaikars rise to the occasion and embrace eco-friendly practices to combat air pollution effectively? The fate of Mumbai’s air quality rests in the hands of its citizens, urging everyone to play their part in preserving the city’s environment for generations to come.
