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GRAP 4 measures implemented in Mumbai to manage air pollution

The enforcement of these measures has been included in the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP 4), which outlines standard protocols for combating severe pollution.

GRAP 4 measures implemented in Mumbai to manage air pollution
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For over a week, Mumbai has been enveloped in deteriorating air quality, leading to the implementation of strict measures by civic authorities. Construction activities in areas where the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeds 200, categorized as ‘poor,’ have been ordered to cease. This action was announced by Bhushan Gagrani, the Municipal Commissioner and state-appointed administrator, as part of efforts to address the escalating pollution levels.

The enforcement of these measures has been included in the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP 4), which outlines standard protocols for combating severe pollution. The decision follows the introduction of the Mumbai Air Pollution Mitigation Plan (MAPMP) in 2023, where several dust-control measures had been proposed. However, challenges in enforcement have continued to hinder consistent implementation across the city.

The GRAP measures were initiated in response to directives issued by the Bombay High Court, which had mandated stricter regulations to combat rising pollution levels. A report on the actions undertaken by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is required to be submitted to the court by January 9. Temporary measures, such as construction bans, were taken to demonstrate compliance and ensure accountability.

As part of the MAPMP, guidelines for dust control had been issued to developers. Project perimeters were required to be enclosed with barriers, air quality sensors were to be installed, and water sprinkling was mandated to prevent dust from spreading. The transportation of debris had been restricted to covered vehicles. Despite these regulations, the scale of the city’s ongoing construction projects has posed significant logistical challenges, as over 1 lakh projects and various government infrastructure initiatives, including Metro construction, are currently underway.

To ensure compliance, monitoring teams comprising officials from the BMC, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), and Mumbai Police had been deployed across the city’s 26 wards. Regular inspections were carried out, and violations were penalized. However, a shortage of resources has been cited as a key factor preventing universal enforcement. Since December 15, MAPMP guidelines have been reimposed as air quality continued to decline. Penalties amounting to ₹50,000 per day have been collected from violators flouting dust mitigation norms. Civic penalties for public offenses such as littering, improper waste disposal, and debris dumping have also been enforced, with fines ranging from ₹200 to ₹1,000, depending on the offense.

While these actions have been undertaken to mitigate pollution and hold violators accountable, the scale of the problem highlights the need for more comprehensive solutions to ensure sustainable improvement in Mumbai’s air quality.

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