Mumbai air pollution: What are BMC’s construction ban rules, and when can work be suspended?

As Mumbai’s air quality deteriorates, with several locations recording high pollution levels in recent days, construction and redevelopment activities have come under increased scrutiny from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Since last year, the civic body has implemented measures to control dust and pollution from construction sites, including provisions to suspend work that violates prescribed pollution-control norms.

Here is what homebuyers, developers and other real estate stakeholders need to know about the BMC’s construction restrictions and the conditions under which work may be halted.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) measures air pollution levels and indicates the potential health risks associated with the air people breathe. In India, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) classifies AQI readings of 0–50 as good, 51–100 as satisfactory, 101–200 as moderate, 201–300 as poor, 301–400 as very poor, and 401–500 as severe. Higher readings indicate greater pollution and potential health risks.

Mumbai real estate: Homebuyers pay extra for sea and forest view, but AQI levels turn into pollution view, say netizensAccording to BMC officials, construction activity can contribute to air pollution through dust generated by excavation, demolition, material handling, debris transportation, and vehicle movement at project sites.