Mumbai, April 2: To address worsening air quality in the city, the BMC has mandated body cameras for special squads inspecting construction sites, aiming to enhance transparency and ensure strict action against violations. The directive was issued to officials across all 26 administrative wards at a high-level meeting held at the BMC headquarters on Thursday.
Body cameras mandated for inspection squads
The BMC’s Environment Department has deployed 94 special squads, each including police personnel, to monitor 2,784 construction sites across the city.
Following complaints that some violations were being overlooked, civic authorities have made it mandatory for squads to record live video using body cameras during every inspection, leaving no room for opacity.
Strict directives issued to curb pollution
At the high-level meeting, Additional Municipal Commissioner Avinash Dhakne issued strict directives to curb pollution from construction activities and road dust.
The meeting was attended by all ward officials, the Deputy Commissioner, and representatives from the Environment and Development Planning Departments.
Focus on reducing road dust pollution
It was emphasised in the meeting that road dust contributes almost 30% to the city’s air pollution, leading the BMC to aim for a reduction to 5%. All ward officials have been instructed to implement enhanced measures such as thorough road cleaning, dust-suppressing mist sprays, and other control strategies. Five mobile vans will also be deployed shortly to vacuum road dust, with ward officers ensuring strict compliance with air quality regulations, said a senior civic official.
Also Watch:
Existing pollution-control guidelines reinforced
Around three years ago, the BMC launched 28-point pollution-control guidelines, covering sensor-based monitoring, green nets, maintaining cleanliness within a 100-metre radius, and barricading construction sites with metal sheets. To ensure strict compliance, the civic body deployed 94 special squads to monitor construction activities citywide.
To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
