MPCB Demands Dust Control at Shivaji Park in 15 Days

MPCB Demands Dust Control at Shivaji Park in 15 Days

The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to implement a comprehensive dust mitigation plan at Shivaji Park, Dadar, within 15 days. This comes after prolonged complaints from local residents about severe dust pollution at the iconic 28-acre park, which has worsened amid Mumbai’s deteriorating air quality.

MPCB chairman Siddhesh Kadam, who inspected Shivaji Park on Monday, emphasised the urgency of the situation. “The MPCB had issued a notice to the BMC last March to address dust pollution complaints at Shivaji Park. While the BMC has proposed removing the excess soil layer as a mitigation measure, no action has been taken so far. If the civic body fails to act within 15 days, the MPCB will initiate appropriate measures,” he stated. The dust problem originates from a failed beautification project at Shivaji Park, where a thick layer of red soil was spread across the ground for levelling purposes four to five years ago. With 70% of the park comprising open ground and a high daily footfall, the project led to severe dust pollution, particularly during dry spells. In response, the BMC now plans to remove nine inches of the red soil layer, pending approval from the Municipal Commissioner.

A report by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) has supported this proposal, prompting the G-North ward to submit it for review. Kadam has also instructed his team to consult other institutions for additional inputs to ensure a sustainable solution. The dust issue has gained attention in light of Mumbai’s declining air quality, which has been under scrutiny in recent months. Local residents have expressed frustration over the long-standing problem, which they believe has been neglected for years. The MPCB’s directive places pressure on the BMC to resolve the issue promptly and effectively. If implemented, the mitigation plan could restore Shivaji Park’s environment and alleviate the dust-related challenges faced by its visitors and nearby residents.