To control dust generated from construction and road dust in Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has deployed big anti-smog guns with a 50-metre throw capacity. These anti-smog guns are supported by 5000-litre and 10,000-litre water storage capacity tanks.
Also, 100 water tankers have also been deployed for washing the roads to remove dust.
Considering the changes in air quality due to climate change and its adverse effects on public life, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has emphasised on implementing measures with standard operating procedures. This also includes road cleanliness. Under this plan, plants are now being used effectively for cleaning and dust prevention on major and smaller roads.
Water spraying is being done in two sessions (shifts) through truck-mounted fog mist cannon plants in 24 administrative divisions. Water is being sprayed intensively in places where construction, demolition and excavation work is going on. The ward’s Deputy Engineer (Environment) inspects the site daily in coordination with various departments and determines the routes of vehicles.
All the departments of the Municipal Corporation have come together to identify the effects of air pollution and climate change and have started taking action on it in a unified manner. These include the Environment and Climate Change Department, Solid Waste Management Department, Building Proposals Department, Roads and Transport Department and the Administrative Division Office. Each Administrative Division Office (ward) of the Municipal Corporation has devised measures as per the local needs to reduce air pollution in its area.
Efforts are also being made to control dust pollution at construction sites so that air pollution does not occur. The civic agency has implemented strict measures to control the dust generated by construction works along the roads, which is a major cause of pollution.
It is being ensured that water is sprayed regularly on construction materials in open spaces. Action is being taken against vehicles transporting unlicensed or illegal trucks, as well as vehicles that do not take any safety measures without covering the vehicle.
