Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai
Mumbai, Jan 10: The Bombay High Court on Thursday raised serious concerns about the ongoing issue of air pollution in Mumbai, particularly in the aftermath of Diwali. A bench led by Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Girish Kulkarni emphasized the need for lasting solutions to combat the city's severe haze.
Despite a clear understanding of the causes behind Mumbai’s deteriorating air quality, the court noted that concrete solutions remain elusive. “What is the solution in such situations? All this starts every year after Diwali. Broadly we know the problems and the causes... so now what is the solution? Or do we continue to see this haze every year all over Mumbai? There is such low visibility on some days,” the judges remarked.
The court observed that although the authorities are aware of the contributing factors, including firecracker usage, increasing vehicle numbers, and pollution from bakeries, decisive and immediate action is needed. In 2023, the court had restricted the bursting of firecrackers to specific hours during Diwali, yet enforcement remained weak.
“We saw firecrackers being burst even up to 1 a.m. despite our orders. The implementing agencies did not follow our orders at all,” the bench expressed disappointment over the lack of enforcement.
Concerns were also raised about the absence of proactive measures. “Only when the court passes orders, something is done. Everyone is affected. You clearly need to take more drastic measures. When will the pollution levels come down? Unless something drastic is done, the situation won't come under control,” the bench emphasized.
Advocates Darius Khambata and Janak Dwarkadas highlighted that heavy construction activities and pollution from bakeries using wood and coal significantly contribute to air pollution. They criticized the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) for prioritizing development over clean air.
Senior advocate Milind Sathe defended the BMC’s position, stating, “We cannot stop development, but we are taking mitigating action.” However, the court emphasized that these measures are insufficient and called for stronger, more effective steps to address the issue. A detailed order is expected to be issued, directing the government and other authorities to take comprehensive action