Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), a vital commercial hub is turning into a major pollution hotspot with air quality often worse than Delhi’s infamous zones. Experts attribute the worsening conditions to traffic congestion, construction dust and nearby polluted rivers.
According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s 2022-2023 Environmental Status Report, BKC’s Bandra Kurla Junction consistently records the highest pollution levels in the city. PM10 levels in the area reached 121 micrograms per cubic meter, double the safe limit set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Experts from SAFAR categorise BKC’s Air Quality Index (AQI) as “very poor” with PM2.5 levels posing serious respiratory risks. Dr. Gufran Beig, a former SAFAR project director noted that traffic accounts for 65% of PM2.5 emissions in BKC significantly more than Mumbai’s average of 35%. He recommended infrastructure changes such as alternative routes and improved traffic flow to reduce pollution.
Construction activity in BKC also contributes to PM10 levels with insufficient dust-control measures worsening the issue. Residents and workers complain about the haze and persistent respiratory issues.
“Before the monsoon, sprinklers were used to control dust but now they’re rarely seen,” noted a long-time worker, Nitin Rane.
The Mithi River and Bandra Khadi further exacerbate pollution. Their poor air quality drifts into BKC adding to the smoky haze.
Dr. Sanjeev Mehta of Lilavati Hospital explained, “Pollution from these sources, combined with vehicle emissions and construction dust, creates bad air days. Long-term exposure worsens asthma, nasal problems, and respiratory conditions.”
Parents of children at Ascend International School raised concerns about illegal dumping of debris near the school. A 2023 study found SOx and NOx levels exceeding safe limits prompting petitions for stricter enforcement. Despite nuisance detectors installed by BMC, the issue persists adding to pollution woes.
Experts urge swift action including expanded Metro services, transitioning to electric vehicles and stricter dust-control measures. Without intervention, BKC’s pollution crisis could worsen posing long-term health risks to its population.