The Bombay High Court has expressed concern over the lack of measures to raise awareness about air pollution in Mumbai. The court observed that no steps have been taken to create and issue necessary health advisories to raise awareness among citizens. The court highlighted the need to safeguard citizens from deleterious levels of air quality index (AQI) that are currently prevailing in Mumbai. The court has taken suo motu cognizance of the deteriorating air quality and has issued notices to the central and state governments, as well as their respective pollution control boards.

The court’s order, released on Wednesday, highlights the alarming scenario and the urgent need to address and tackle the issue in the welfare and interest of all residents of Mumbai and its surrounding areas. The judges noted that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken certain steps to mitigate air pollution in Mumbai, but the AQI levels have not improved enough to bring it within healthy limits.

To assist the court in the matter, senior advocate Darius Khambata has been appointed as amicus curiae, and the court has sought the assistance of advocate general Birendra Saraf to urgently address the issue on behalf of the state government.

The PIL filed by three residents – Amar Tike, Anand Jha, and Sanjay Surve – brought the air pollution problem to the attention of the court. They sought directions to the BMC and the state government to take immediate steps to curb air pollution in Mumbai. The court will hear the PIL on November 6.