Spike in Mumbai’s AQI Linked to Construction Boom and Vehicular Pollution, Say Experts
Mumbai, December 01, 2025: Mumbai’s air quality dipped again over the weekend, with experts pointing to the city’s rapid construction activity and rising vehicle emissions as the main reasons. On Sunday, November 30, the city recorded an average AQI of 104, which falls in the moderate category. Some pockets, including Bandra Kurla Complex, reported severe levels.
Climate scientist Angshuman Modak from IIT Bombay said the ongoing infrastructure push across Mumbai and nearby cities is a key factor behind the rising pollution. Metro rail lines, road works, bridges and large-scale redevelopment have increased dust and emissions from construction sites.
IMD scientist Sushma Nair added that seasonal conditions are also making things worse. With winter approaching, temperature inversion and low wind speeds trap pollutants closer to the surface. She said Mumbai’s dense cluster of high-rises further restricts natural airflow, limiting the dispersal of pollutants.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said it has stepped up measures to control pollution. Actions include:
• Forcing bakeries and crematoriums to switch to cleaner fuels
• Deploying more electric buses
• Strict handling of construction debris
• Using water-sprinkling machines to control dust
The civic body pointed out that it had earlier issued 28 guidelines for construction sites. These included installing metal fencing, using green cloth covers, sprinkling water, managing debris properly and setting up air monitoring devices.
Recently, the BMC issued stop-work notices to 53 construction sites in areas such as Siddharth Nagar, Mazgaon and Malad West for violating pollution norms. Officials also reviewed sensor-based AQI devices installed at construction locations. Out of 662 sensors, 117 were found inactive. The civic body warned that strict action will be taken if these systems remain non-functional.
Bakeries have also been identified as contributors to pollution. Out of 593 bakeries in Mumbai, 209 already use clean fuel. Due to recent efforts, 57 more have shifted to cleaner options, while others are in the process of transitioning.
Experts warn that poor air quality can affect both short-term and long-term health. The World Health Organisation lists air pollution as a major risk factor for diseases such as stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, COPD and pneumonia. Studies also suggest links to adverse pregnancy outcomes, diabetes and neurological issues.
