The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has warned builders and developers that construction sites breaching air pollution regulations could face strict enforcement measures, including suspension of work, sealing of premises and substantial fines, as the city prepares for winter.
The warning was issued on Saturday following a high-level meeting convened by NMMC chief Kailas Shinde. The discussion brought together urban planners, executive engineers, architects, builders and developers to review measures aimed at preventing a deterioration in air quality.
Highlighting the health risks associated with winter pollution, Shinde urged the construction industry to take greater responsibility for controlling dust and emissions, particularly to protect vulnerable residents.
“Pollution severely impacts children, senior citizens, and respiratory patients in winter. Builders must treat environmental responsibility as a social duty rather than just as a business,” Shinde said.
According to a civic official, the corporation has introduced stringent Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to minimise dust generation and prevent construction-related pollution. One key provision prohibits the use of drinking water for construction activities and dust suppression. Sites found violating this rule could face immediate sealing.
The guidelines also require developers to install barricades measuring 30 feet in height and completely cover buildings with green safety netting. Construction sites must establish tyre-washing facilities at exit points to prevent mud and debris from being carried onto public roads.
In addition, every site is required to install air-quality monitoring sensors and publicly visible Air Quality Index (AQI) display boards. These measures are intended to improve monitoring and ensure that pollution levels remain visible to both authorities and the public.
The civic body has begun joint inspections involving multiple departments to check whether construction sites are following the prescribed safeguards. Officials have warned that violations will invite strict action, including work stoppages and heavy financial penalties.
Director of Urban Planning Somnath Kekan said inspections were continuing to enforce compliance. The civic body’s campaign seeks to strengthen accountability among developers and reduce construction-related pollution during the winter months, when its health effects can become more severe.
Source : Economic Times
