Mumbai's Air Quality Crisis Prompts BMC to Deploy 28 High-Tech Machines
As Mumbai grapples with deteriorating air quality, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a comprehensive strategy to combat pollution across the city. This initiative comes in response to alarming data revealing that Mumbai experienced 21 days of unhealthy Air Quality Index (AQI) readings between January 1 and January 27, 2026, with only six days classified as satisfactory.
Localized Monitoring and Immediate Response
The BMC's approach involves targeted interventions based on real-time data from 28 localised monitoring stations. Civic officials have outlined that when a specific location shows a decline in AQI, immediate actions will be taken. These measures include spraying water on roads and deploying mist guns to reduce suspended particulate matter in the air.
Avinash Dhakane, BMC Additional Municipal Commissioner in charge of the environment department, explained the process: "Last week, AQI stations in Andheri East showed a consistent dip. We deployed ward-level officials to investigate. If we detect open garbage burning, we stop it. If dust from construction is the issue, we initiate water sprinkling immediately."
New Equipment to Tackle Pollution Sources
As part of this initiative, the BMC is acquiring 28 automatic sweeping machines designed to clear road dust more effectively. These machines will operate on all major roads, focusing on areas where parked vehicles make cleaning challenging. Sweeping will occur from north to south in the morning and south to north in the evening.
Additionally, the corporation has floated tenders to procure vehicle-mounted mist spraying vans for nine municipal wards in the western and eastern suburbs. These wards include:
- Andheri
- Jogeshwari
- Malad
- Borivali
- Ghatkopar
- Kanjurmarg
- Bhandup
- Mulund
Each ward will receive one dedicated misting vehicle for regular water spraying operations.
Addressing the Root Causes of Poor Air Quality
Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) indicates that during the monitoring period, Mumbai's average AQI ranged between 120 and 150. This level is considered moderate but unhealthy for vulnerable groups such as senior citizens and children.
A BMC officer emphasized the importance of these measures: "Dust displacement and emissions are major contributors to poor AQI in Mumbai. By adding more vehicles to our fleet, we can reduce response time and ensure regular water sprinkling."
Previously, vehicle-mounted misting machines were only available in a few south Mumbai wards and had to be deployed across the city. The new procurement aims to create a more efficient and responsive system.
Looking Ahead: A Proactive Approach to Urban Pollution
The BMC's strategy represents a shift toward data-driven, localized pollution control. By combining advanced monitoring with immediate physical interventions, officials hope to mitigate the factors contributing to Mumbai's air quality challenges.
This comprehensive approach not only addresses current pollution levels but also establishes a framework for ongoing environmental management in one of India's most populous metropolitan areas.
