The Bombay High Court has urged both the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and citizens to take measures “on war-footing” to improve Mumbai’s cleanliness, public hygiene and waste-management practices.
A division bench of Justices Girish Kulkarni and Neela Gokhale, in an order passed on August 27, emphasised that maintaining a clean city cannot be treated as the responsibility of the civic administration alone. Citizens, the court said, are “equal stakeholders” in creating a healthier urban environment.
“Maintaining public hygiene is a collective duty of ‘we the citizens’ by aiding the municipal machinery,” the bench observed.
The court’s comments came after the BMC submitted an affidavit outlining steps undertaken following directions issued on July 15 regarding garbage dumping, public hygiene and waste management.
The bench noted the proactive approach adopted by Municipal Commissioner and praised the measures being implemented to tackle the “menace of garbage dumping” on Mumbai’s roads and public spaces. It described the initiatives as “pragmatic and positive actions” necessary for a city with Mumbai’s international standing.
According to the affidavit filed by Additional Municipal Commissioner Vipin Sharma, ward-level officials have begun enforcing the Solid Waste Management Bye-Laws, 2025, including imposing fines on people violating the rules.
The BMC has also intensified anti-littering drives, inspections and enforcement operations. CCTV cameras have been installed at identified Garbage Vulnerable Points to monitor illegal dumping, while ward teams have been directed to take action against offenders. A three-shift waste collection system has also been introduced across various wards.
The court warned that indiscriminate garbage disposal can create breeding grounds for mosquitoes, rodents and stray animals, increasing the risk of disease and threatening public health and the environment.
Concluding its order, the bench said, “it is never too late” and expressed hope that “Clean Mumbai, Green Mumbai” would become a reality rather than remain merely a slogan.
The court also raised concerns over the future of the Kanjurmarg dumping ground, observing that the BMC should have a clear alternative plan if it is eventually directed to stop using the site.
The matter involves petitions, including one by Kannamwar Nagar CHS Association Ltd, concerning foul odour, toxic emissions, pollution and alleged health risks near the dumping ground. The Kanjurmarg issue remains subject to ongoing legal proceedings.
Source: The Free Press Journal
