January 23, 2026: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued ‘stop work’ notices to 106 construction sites across Mumbai for failing to install mandatory air quality monitoring systems, intensifying enforcement of pollution control norms at building and infrastructure projects.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the civic body said the action covers a range of projects, including private developments, railway bridge construction works in Sion, and projects being implemented by the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) in K East ward and the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) in H East ward. The notices follow repeated inspections and compliance reviews conducted by the BMC’s Environment and Climate Change Department.
“Despite repeated follow-ups since May 2025, several construction sites were found violating norms, prompting the civic administration to order immediate issuance of ‘stop work’ notices. The action follows direction, making it compulsory for all ongoing construction projects to install air quality sensors,” the civic body said in its release.
According to the BMC, projects with an estimated cost exceeding Rs 1,000 crore have been specifically instructed to install reference-grade air quality monitoring systems. Developers that have not yet complied have been directed to submit compliance reports immediately; failing which, stricter enforcement measures will be initiated.
The corporation said inspections will continue, and similar notices will be issued to other construction sites found non-compliant. As part of a predefined action plan, all departmental teams have been instructed to carry out regular site inspections, verify logbooks, and ensure prompt enforcement of environmental regulations.
“The crackdown is not limited to construction sites alone. The BMC has also directed the public health department to issue stop-work notices to bakery units found violating emission norms related to smoke, fuel usage and pollution standards. No compromise would be made on improving Mumbai’s air quality,” the release said.
Currently, Mumbai has 28 Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS), including 14 operated by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, nine by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, and five managed by the BMC. Data from these reference-grade stations is available on the Central Pollution Control Board website and the ‘Sameer’ mobile application.
The BMC has also urged citizens to avoid practices such as open burning of waste. The next hearing in the Bombay High Court related to air pollution is scheduled for Friday.
