Mumbai’s Metro Line 4 construction has come under scrutiny after BJP MLA Mihir Kotecha raised concerns over deteriorating air quality in Mulund, claiming multiple construction sites along LBS Road are contributing significantly to local pollution levels. The allegations arrive as Mumbai continues to grapple with recurring spikes in particulate matter, particularly in northern suburbs where large-scale infrastructure works are underway.
During an on-ground assessment conducted over the weekend with officials from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Kotecha pointed to unattended debris, exposed earth and inadequate dust-mitigation systems at numerous stretches along the Wadala–Kasarvadavali alignment. According to him, several sites displayed no evidence of housekeeping or reinstatement, despite repeated government advisories on pollution control. “There are dozens of locations where construction waste has been sitting for months,” Kotecha said, calling the lack of barricading and dust suppression “a systemic failure rather than oversight”. He stated that he has requested immediate clearance of waste and enforcement of safety norms.
Air quality data from late November showed Mulund recording “poor” AQI readings, with PM2.5 and PM10 listed as dominant pollutants. Environmental experts say that prolonged exposure to these fine particulates can trigger respiratory distress, especially among children, the elderly and those with pre-existing health vulnerabilities. One independent environmental researcher noted that “large linear construction corridors tend to generate diffused pollution, making enforcement more complex but no less necessary.” Residents living near the alignment report visible dust accumulation on balconies and higher instances of coughing and irritation during outdoor movement. A Mulund resident said walking along LBS Road “feels like inhaling grit,” adding that measures like misting machines or temporary green barriers are rarely seen in operation.
Construction-linked pollution has become a recurring political and governance challenge in Mumbai as the city attempts to balance infrastructure expansion with public health and environmental stewardship. Officials privately acknowledge that while guidelines exist—requiring barricades, sprinklers, covered material storage and debris management—compliance is inconsistent, and enforcement remains stretched across multiple agencies. A senior planning official from the MMRDA said corrective measures will be prioritised and action taken where contractors fail to comply. However, no official public response has been issued yet.
As Mumbai transitions toward climate-resilient mobility infrastructure, ensuring pollution control at construction sites remains critical. Urban policy analysts argue that sustainable development requires not only modern transport networks but also standards that protect air quality and minimise harm to surrounding communities.
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