Navi Mumbai: Sanpada recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 203, falling in the ‘Poor’ category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) dashboard. Readings reviewed at 4 pm on October 16 highlighted variations in air quality across Navi Mumbai and raised concerns over the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to polluted air.

The city’s average AQI stood at 117, classified as ‘Moderate’. Among monitoring stations, Sanpada recorded the highest reading, followed by Mahape at 126 and Nerul at 120. CBD Belapur registered 112, while Kopripada-Vashi recorded 109.

According to CPCB classifications, an AQI between 201 and 300 falls under the ‘Poor’ category and may cause breathing discomfort upon prolonged exposure. Fine particulate matter, particularly PM2.5, can penetrate deep into the lungs and is associated with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Children, senior citizens and people with existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable.

Shrikant Patki, a Sanpada resident, expressed concern over deteriorating air quality and called for stricter enforcement of pollution-control measures.

“Navi Mumbai must be housing one after another tallest buildings, but its air quality is deteriorating day by day. With the monsoon over, Sanpada’s AQI has reached 203, a warning we should not ignore,” Patki said.

He added that poor air quality was causing dry cough, throat irritation and breathing difficulties, particularly among children and senior citizens. Construction dust, vehicular emissions and industrial activity are potential pollution sources that require monitoring and appropriate controls.

“NMMC must strictly enforce pollution-control norms, hold violators accountable and, if necessary, halt work at non-compliant construction sites until corrective measures are taken. Development cannot come at the cost of public health. Clean air is a basic necessity, and providing it must be NMMC’s priority,” Patki said.

Mumbai’s city-level AQI stood at 99, while Bandra Kurla Complex recorded 130, Chakala-Andheri East 124, Khindipada-Bhandup West 122 and Deonar 112.
B N Kumar, founder-director of NatConnect Foundation, said rapid redevelopment was worsening environmental concerns in Navi Mumbai, with tree felling, construction dust and vehicular emissions adding to the pollution burden.

“Navi Mumbai’s rapid redevelopment is worsening environmental concerns. Tree felling, construction dust and vehicular emissions are adding to the pollution burden. Authorities must protect mature trees, enforce emission and dust-control norms, and follow the 3-30-300 principle. Publishing AQI figures is not enough; what matters is immediate action on the ground,” Kumar said.