BMC warns builders of strict action over construction dust, orders checks on air quality sensors

Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide. File | Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has warned of strict action against developers and contractors who fail to implement dust-control measures at construction sites and adjoining roads, as part of efforts to curb air pollution in Mumbai.Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide issued the directions during a review meeting on Tuesday (October 27, 2026), calling for strict implementation of the civic body’s 28-point air pollution control guidelines and compliance with Bombay High Court directives on firecrackers.Ms. Bhide said developers and contractors were responsible for controlling dust generated at construction sites and on adjoining roads. They must ensure that construction premises are kept clean, prevent dust from spreading into surrounding areas and comply with prescribed pollution-control measures.She directed civic officials to conduct regular inspections and take immediate action wherever violations are detected, stressing that implementation of the guidelines must be visible on the ground rather than remain limited to paperwork.The commissioner also directed officials to ensure that air quality monitoring stations and sensors remain operational. She called for strict action against those concerned if monitoring equipment is found switched off or displaying incorrect readings.The BMC has also been instructed to undertake special road-cleaning drives using modern equipment to minimise dust pollution and improve air quality across the city.Addressing noise pollution caused by firecrackers, Ms. Bhide directed all civic wards to strictly enforce the Bombay High Court’s directions. According to the BMC, the court has prohibited bursting firecrackers on public roads, streets and footpaths, as well as in silence zones such as schools, hospitals, government offices and courts.She also called for awareness campaigns highlighting the health hazards of firecrackers, involving local elected representatives and students from government and private schools. Citizens should be encouraged to use green firecrackers instead of more polluting alternatives, she said.Additional Municipal Commissioner Avinash Dhakne, Deputy Commissioners Prashant Gaikwad and Avinash Kate, along with senior civic officials, attended the meeting. Published - October 28, 2026 01:40 am IST