Mumbai: The BMC has told the Bombay high court that at 662 construction sites sensor-based air quality monitors have not yet been installed. There are 1,954 ongoing construction sites within BMC limits.The BMC filed its reply affidavit to the HC’s Dec 24 order to submit status reports “demonstrating tangible and measurable results evidencing reduction in pollution levels in Mumbai”. The affidavit by Avinash Kate, chief engineer (environment and climate change), said the BMC “immediately operationalised the action plan for the next 15 days”. It informed the court that showcause/stop-work notices were issued after construction sites were found to be non-compliant with 28-point guidelines for air pollution mitigation at construction sites and roads, among others, and the HC’s directions. Between Dec 29, 2025, and Jan 13, 2025, 409 showcause and 284 stop-work notices were issued. These notices were issued mainly for non-compliance or inadequate mitigation measures such as construction material not covered, no metal sheets around periphery, fogging machine not installed or not in operation, no tyre washing facility, no air quality monitors, no green cover, and road not clean or washed.The affidavit stated the remaining sites where air quality monitors are either not yet installed or installed but not yet integrated with the central server, or temporarily not relaying data “are being followed up with the concerned project proponents, vendors, and site authorities”. Necessary directions have been issued to ensure rectification of power supply, connectivity and commissioning issues within stipulated timelines.” Sites where monitors were not installed before Jan 15 are being served stop-work notices. The BMC’s affidavit referred to ward-level action taken including setting up 94 ward-level squads across Mumbai for enforcement of measures at the sites. The BMC gave a day-wise AQI of Mumbai from Dec 29 till Jan 15. “The AQI in this period is well within the moderate AQI range of 101-140,” it added. It stated the comparative AQI from 2022 to 2025 “shows consistent seasonal pattern” with higher pollution level during winter and lower in monsoon.On Tuesday, senior advocate S U Kamdar submitted BMC’s affidavit to Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Suman Shyam. “What is the quality of air today?” the CJ asked. Kamdar replied, “It is moderate.” The judges posted the hearing on Friday.
