Mumbai Implements GRAP-4 Restrictions as Air Quality Reaches Severe Levels: What Residents Need to Know

Air quality in multiple areas of Mumbai has exceeded 'very poor' and 'severe' thresholds, prompting immediate action.

Stringent restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-4) have been implemented in parts of Mumbai as air pollution levels rise drastically in India's financial hub. Indeed, Mumbai has now joined Delhi among cities with hazardous air quality requiring GRAP measures to combat escalating pollution.

Municipal authorities in Mumbai began enforcing GRAP-4 restrictions after several neighborhoods registered air quality in 'very poor' and 'severe' categories. The affected areas include Mazgaon, Deonar, Malad, Borivali East, Chakala-Andheri East, Navy Nagar, Powai, and Mulund.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has suspended construction and dust-generating activities across these areas, with dozens of sites under close observation. Over 50 construction sites have received stop-work or shutdown notices. Small-scale industries, including bakeries and marble-cutting operations, have been instructed to adopt cleaner processes or face regulatory consequences.

Authorities have deployed specialized flying squads in every ward to enforce pollution control regulations and monitor emissions. These teams consist of engineers, police personnel, and GPS-tracked vehicles conducting area-wide inspections for pollution-generating activities.

During recent weeks, numerous areas in Mumbai have recorded Air Quality Index readings in the 'very poor' and 'severe' ranges. Residents report symptoms including burning eyes, respiratory difficulties, and throat irritation, mirroring the experience of Delhi residents.

Various celebrities have expressed their concern about the deteriorating air quality on social media platforms. Comedian and actor Vir Das shared an Instagram video singing "AQI, AQI, let me die." Actor-filmmaker Soni Razdan called for urgent anti-pollution measures, stating, "Let us not be guilty of allowing apathy to kill us. Because that's what will happen." Lyricist-filmmaker Varun Grover noted that air quality isn't receiving adequate attention because "its killing effects take a decade or two - it might even cut down your lifespan by 15 years."

Mumbai's Congress party has introduced a 'Mumbai Clean Air Action Plan' that proposes recognizing clean air as a fundamental right, implementing continuous monitoring of pollution sources, planting one million trees, and establishing stricter pollution standards for vehicles, construction, and industrial operations.

Mumbai's entrance into the ranks of severely polluted cities serves as a critical warning for government authorities nationwide. Year-round construction, vehicle emissions, and waste incineration are gradually contaminating the air in major urban centers. Policy initiatives thus far have been largely ineffective in addressing root causes, allowing the problem to persist. Delhi has struggled with severe winter air pollution for years, and Mumbai has now joined this concerning list.

During a recent BMC meeting reviewing the AQI increase, the necessity for immediate intervention was highlighted. Municipal Commissioner Dr. Bhushan Gagrani had indicated that GRAP-4 restrictions would be activated if the AQI exceeded 200 for three consecutive days.