BMC Tackles Mumbai’s Air Pollution: Mobile Dust Suction Vans To Clean Up Construction Dust

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken a significant step towards reducing air pollution caused by construction dust by procuring mobile dust suction vans, according to a Mid-day report. These vans will be deployed across all wards in Mumbai to combat the increasing pollution levels caused by dust from construction activities.

Data from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board reveals that construction dust contributes significantly to Mumbai's air pollution, accounting for 28-30 per cent of total pollution. In response to this, the BMC has implemented a 28-point dust mitigation guideline for construction sites.

The newly introduced dust suction vans are expected to play a crucial role in curbing pollution. "These vans will be deployed in every ward. We are currently assessing their effectiveness. Each machine is estimated to cost Rs 40 lakh," said a civic official as per the same report. In addition, officials are considering fitting dust suction units to BEST buses. "We will prioritise areas with severe dust issues, and the machines will move around different parts of the ward," the official added.

The dust suction system in these vans uses a single-stage vacuum to collect dust. The air is filtered and the dust is collected in a container. The system also recirculates air through a filter to trap smaller particles, helping to further reduce pollution.

Alongside this initiative, the BMC has imposed a ban on construction activities at 191 sites that failed to comply with the dust mitigation guidelines. These guidelines include measures such as enclosing construction sites with green cloth, jute, or tarpaulin, providing 25-foot-high coverings around the site, spraying water regularly, using misting plants, and employing air quality monitoring sensors.

Project promoters and developers must also prepare an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to ensure compliance. This initiative is part of the BMC's ongoing efforts to improve Mumbai's air quality and reduce the harmful effects of construction dust.