Mumbai Deploys Flying Squads to Combat Rising Air Pollution Crisis: BMC Implements Strict 28-Point Action Plan

Mumbai has been experiencing a concerning increase in air pollution levels in recent months, prompting decisive action from local authorities.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has implemented a new strategy by deploying specialized flying squads across all administrative wards to enforce its comprehensive 28-point air pollution control guidelines. Officials have received clear instructions to take firm action against those who fail to comply with these regulations.

Each flying squad consists of two ward-level engineers and one police officer, equipped with a Vehicle Tracking and Monitoring System (VTMS) vehicle to enhance their operational effectiveness.

A representative from the civic body explained, "These squads will rigorously implement all BMC directives, monitor sensor-based air-quality units and LED displays, and address violations such as garbage burning and the use of wood as fuel."

The BMC has stated that if Mumbai's Air Quality Index (AQI) persistently exceeds 200 despite ongoing mitigation efforts, they will invoke the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-4), which mandates the closure of industries and construction activities contributing to pollution. All Deputy Municipal Commissioners and Assistant Commissioners have been instructed to vigilantly monitor compliance and take immediate corrective actions when necessary.

A civic official highlighted current initiatives: "The BMC is prioritizing measures including cleaner fuel adoption in bakeries and crematoriums, expanding electric bus operations, scientifically processing construction waste, and implementing dust suppression through misting and water spraying on roads."

The comprehensive guidelines issued on October 15, 2024, require construction sites to install sheet barricades, green cloth covers, conduct regular water sprinkling, properly store debris, and implement air-quality monitoring and dust-extraction systems. These detailed guidelines are accessible on the BMC's official website.

The BMC has urged citizens to avoid activities that contribute to air pollution and to support the civic administration's ongoing efforts to improve air quality.

Mumbai has witnessed a troubling surge in air pollution recently. According to the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), October 2025 has been the most polluted month of the year thus far, with numerous monitoring stations recording unprecedented levels of PM2.5 and PM10 pollutants, attributed to a combination of festival firecrackers, construction dust, and vehicle emissions. Many neighborhoods across the city have experienced dense morning smog, with the AQI frequently reaching the "unhealthy" range.