Mumbai’s air quality remained a major concern on Friday, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 281, categorised as “unhealthy.”
The city woke up to smog-filled conditions as pollution levels continued to climb, with areas like Nagpada, Mazgaon, Deonar, and Malad consistently reporting poor AQI readings.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has implemented GRAP-4 (Graded Response Action Plan) measures in the worst-affected areas. These include intensified road cleaning, close monitoring of construction sites, and penalties for polluting industries. Stop-work notices have been issued to 53 construction sites identified as major contributors to the city’s deteriorating air quality.
The Bombay High Court has also rejected the state’s claim that volcanic ash from Ethiopia was responsible for the city’s poor AQI, reinforcing the need for stricter local action to address pollution.
Authorities have advised residents to wear protective masks and limit outdoor movement. Sensitive groups, including children, elderly individuals, and those with respiratory conditions, have been urged to stay indoors to avoid health risks such as breathing difficulties and throat irritation due to the poor air quality.