Mumbai: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has intensified dust-control measures in Kandivali, deploying water sprinklers and mist machines as Mumbai’s post-monsoon air quality remains a concern. A truck equipped with sprinkling and misting systems was seen operating in the suburb on Tuesday to suppress dust generated by construction and roadwork. The action comes as the civic body resumes concretisation work on 112 roads across the city.

Mumbai’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 98 by AQI.in on October 27, placing it in the moderate category. The Central Pollution Control Board recorded the city’s AQI at 105 on October 26. Other readings on Tuesday ranged from 97 to 139, reflecting variations across monitoring platforms and times.

Civic officials have said dust-control requirements apply to both construction sites and roadwork. Contractors are expected to implement prescribed mitigation measures, while BMC squads and sub-engineers inspect sites to check compliance.

The measures come amid growing concern over construction-related pollution. Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar has proposed suspending construction and demolition activities for one day a week during periods of high pollution. He has also suggested a Mumbai-specific Graded Response Action Plan, treated-wastewater washing of major roads and mechanised night-time sweeping.

Although some readings indicate a marginal improvement, the city continues to face challenges in controlling dust emissions from multiple work sites. Sustained improvement will depend on enforcement of pollution-control norms, weather conditions and coordination among civic agencies, contractors and traffic authorities.