Mumbai has recorded a significant improvement in winter air quality, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) announced on Wednesday, highlighting the success of sustained municipal pollution control measures. Compared to the same period last year, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has improved substantially, signalling the effectiveness of coordinated civic and regulatory action. Experts say this progress demonstrates the impact of urban governance on sustainable city living.
Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) shows that between 1–16 December 2024, Mumbai’s AQI ranged from 158 to 167. This year, the same period recorded a markedly lower AQI of 105–113, placing the city within the moderate air quality category. A senior municipal official noted that consistent efforts to mitigate airborne pollutants are yielding measurable results, benefiting residents and commuters alike. The BMC’s pollution control strategy includes multiple integrated actions across the city. According to the Additional Municipal Commissioner, Dr Avinash Dhakane, initiatives involve deep cleaning of roads using water tankers at over 370 locations, misting machine spraying at more than 250 sites, and strict enforcement actions, including issuing show-cause notices and stop-work orders at construction sites failing to comply with environmental norms. These interventions reflect a holistic approach to air quality management, combining preventive maintenance with regulatory oversight.
Officials emphasise that sustained improvement relies on both administrative enforcement and public cooperation. “Residents are urged to avoid burning waste and adhere to pollution control guidelines to maintain the gains achieved this winter,” said a deputy municipal commissioner from the Environment and Climate Change Department. Authorities also highlighted that civic engagement and behavioural change are essential components of long-term air quality management. Industry experts suggest that Mumbai’s winter air quality improvement could serve as a model for other metropolitan areas struggling with seasonal pollution spikes. “Urban air quality is a shared responsibility. Coordinated infrastructure maintenance, construction oversight, and public awareness can significantly reduce pollutant levels, creating a healthier urban environment,” an environmental planning consultant noted.
The BMC continues to monitor AQI levels across the city, using data-driven insights to adapt strategies in real-time. With Mumbai’s growing population and high-density urban footprint, the focus remains on sustainable solutions that protect public health, reduce environmental impact, and enhance city livability.
Mumbai Records Significant Improvement In Winter Air Quality As BMC Credits Strict Pollution Control Measures
