Mumbai: Maharashtra Environment Minister Pankaja Munde has outlined a clean-air action plan for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), focusing on road dust, construction debris, industrial pollution and vehicular emissions.

The plan includes more extensive vacuum cleaning of roads, measures to prevent construction material from spilling during transportation, and improved processing and recycling of construction waste. Authorities are also expected to strengthen inspections of industrial units to ensure compliance with pollution-control norms.

Promoting cleaner transport is another key component, with an emphasis on electric vehicles and electric buses to reduce emissions. The plan also seeks to make better use of funds available under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and expand green cover across the region.

The measures come amid growing concerns over deteriorating air quality in Mumbai and neighbouring urban areas, where rapid infrastructure development, construction activity and increasing traffic contribute to pollution.

The proposed interventions aim to address pollution at its sources through improved road maintenance, stricter monitoring and sustainable transport solutions. Effective implementation and coordination among civic bodies and other agencies will be crucial to achieving lasting improvements in air quality.