December 2, 2025: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched a major enforcement drive against construction-related air pollution, issuing show-cause notices to 482 structures and several large infrastructure agencies, including the bullet train project. Of these, 264 sites have received “stop work” orders for failing to follow dust-mitigation norms identified as crucial in the Mumbai Air Pollution Action Plan (MAPAP). The National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL), which is building the bullet train terminal at Bandra Kurla Complex, and the BMC’s coastal road department are among those flagged.
Last week, the civic body deployed 450 Junior Officers to inspect construction sites across the city. During a visit to the bullet train station site on November 28, officials noted dust dispersal caused by ongoing excavation. “During our visit, we found that dust was being displaced from the construction site since excavation work was underway. Our officers have given them a three-day time to comply with all the dust mitigation rules that have been mentioned in the Mumbai Air Pollution Mitigation Action Plan (MAPMP),” said a civic official.
NHSRCL sources confirmed receiving the notice. One official stated, “We will make sure that all dust mitigation measures are complied with at the under-construction bullet train station at Bandra Kurla Complex… We will work with the local authorities in making sure that there is no air pollution due to the bullet train construction activities.” Contractors have been instructed to adhere strictly to BMC guidelines. The coastal road department has also been directed to address dust from adjacent open land parcels near residential buildings.
BMC data shows only 778 of Mumbai’s 2,000 construction sites have installed mandatory air quality sensors, with just 309 devices currently active. So far, 79 “stop work” notices have been issued to sites missing sensors. Officials continue inspections to verify installations and displayed readings.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Mumbai’s AQI stood at 113 on Monday, categorised as “moderate”. Following persistent “poor” AQI levels in Mazgaon, Deonar and Malad, the BMC imposed Stage-4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in these areas to curb pollution.
Source: The Indian Express
