Maharashtra’s air quality landscape has shown a mixed trend, with particulate matter (PM10) levels decreasing in 12 cities but rising in seven others, according to the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC). The report, released as part of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), highlighted notable improvements in Mumbai, Akola, and Thane but raised concerns over worsening conditions in Navi Mumbai, Vasai-Virar, and other regions.
Mumbai reported a significant 42% reduction in PM10 levels from 2017-18 to 2023-24, attributed to stricter construction norms and awareness campaigns. The city has adopted measures like mechanical road sweeping, water sprinkling to curb dust resuspension, and the regulation of ready-mix concrete plants. Similar efforts have led to 23% and 20% reductions in Thane and Latur, respectively. Smaller reductions were recorded in Pune (4%), Kolhapur (3%), and Chandrapur (1%), signalling the need for more targeted interventions. Union Environment Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh noted in a Rajya Sabha address that 97 of 130 cities nationwide have shown improvement in PM10 levels.
Despite progress, areas like Navi Mumbai, Jalgaon, and Aurangabad reported an increase in PM10 levels. Navi Mumbai, a growing urban hub, faces mounting challenges due to construction activity and vehicular emissions. Critics have questioned the reported reductions in some cities, citing rising emissions and construction as potential contradictions. Hema Chari Madabhushi, an air quality activist with Warrior Moms, emphasised the health risks posed by PM10. “Sprinklers and water sprays are helpful but insufficient. Stricter regulations on construction and fossil fuel use are essential,” she stated.
While initiatives like promoting compressed natural gas (CNG) and enforcing 30-foot barriers around construction sites have proven effective, experts highlight that sustained improvements require stricter compliance and enhanced monitoring. Maharashtra’s efforts under the NCAP demonstrate promise, but the disparity between cities underscores the need for tailored solutions to meet local challenges. The data serves as both a testament to progress and a call to action for continued vigilance in combating air pollution across the state.
