News Desk: The Bombay High Court has expressed serious concern over Mumbai’s worsening air pollution, questioning why authorities have failed to control the situation despite the city’s geographical advantages. During a hearing on Wednesday, the court reportedly noted that Mumbai’s pollution levels had, at times, surpassed those of Delhi, raising concerns about public health and the effectiveness of existing enforcement measures.
Justice Kulkarni observed that Mumbai should benefit from its coastal location, sea breeze and open spaces. However, the city continues to face deteriorating air quality.
“This is shocking,” the judge reportedly remarked, questioning why the city’s natural advantages had not helped keep its skies clear. The court also expressed concern over reports that visibility in Mumbai had dropped below 500 metres on Tuesday.
According to data cited by aqi.in, Mumbai’s Air Quality Index (AQI) remained between 150 and 200 over the past week. Such readings fall within the moderate to poor range, depending on the scale used, and can pose health risks, particularly for sensitive groups.
Court Questions Failure to Enforce Pollution Rules
The court criticised the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and police for failing to properly implement earlier directions on air and noise pollution.
During the hearing, the bench questioned how enforcement officials could remain unconcerned while millions of residents faced what it described as an emergency situation.
The judges also expressed displeasure over the use of loudspeakers and music systems during processions without the required prior permissions and undertakings to comply with prescribed decibel limits. The continued bursting of firecrackers on busy public roads was another major concern.
The bench said repeated violations suggested that its earlier orders were not being implemented effectively.
BMC Pulled Up Over Firecracker Ban
In its written order, the court criticised the BMC and MPCB for failing to publicise its October 15 directive prohibiting firecrackers in public places, including streets, lanes and footpaths.
The authorities had been instructed to inform citizens about the restrictions through newspapers, electronic media, social media and other platforms. However, the court noted that the necessary steps had not been taken.
The observations underline the need for stronger enforcement and better public awareness to prevent further deterioration in air quality.
Delhi Pollution Also Raises Concern Ahead of Diwali
Meanwhile, Delhi experienced a sharp rise in pollution levels on Tuesday evening as Dussehra effigies were burned. Authorities are also concerned about the possibility of worsening air quality as Diwali approaches.
The Supreme Court has called for a practical approach to regulating firecrackers, while considering public concerns over restrictions.
The Bombay High Court’s latest observations highlight growing concerns about pollution in major Indian cities. With Mumbai facing deteriorating air quality and repeated violations of pollution-control rules, the focus is now on whether civic authorities will take effective action to protect residents.
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