Mumbai, February 23: Aditya Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena-UBT, has urged the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to impose an immediate one-week halt on private construction activities. He cited the deteriorating air quality and the “terrible smog” enveloping Mumbai as key reasons for his request.
In a strongly worded letter to Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagare, Thackeray expressed concern over the worsening environmental conditions and ongoing urban development projects. He called for urgent measures to protect public health.
The letter, dated February 22, highlights the growing conflict between the opposition and civic bodies regarding environmental management and the city’s rapid infrastructure expansion.
Thackeray noted that Mumbai has been experiencing “excessive pollution” for the past three days. He warned that declining air quality could negatively impact the city’s reputation as a destination for investment and tourism.
He demanded an immediate seven-day suspension of private construction activities across the city. Additionally, he called for the creation of a ward-wise construction schedule that incorporates real-time air quality data to mitigate environmental impacts.
The former Maharashtra Environment Minister also criticized BMC’s alleged plan to cut down nearly 45,000 mangroves, pointing out the contradiction between environmental commitments and development decisions.
Thackeray stated, “If trees are removed instead of preserving Mumbai’s natural ecosystem, the plan to plant trees as compensation is unacceptable.” He suggested that alternative engineering solutions, such as underground construction or modified infrastructure designs, could help protect mangrove cover.
He also objected to proposed redevelopment and land use changes at notable public spaces like the Mahalaxmi Racecourse and Back Garden in Colaba. Referring to the proposed underground parking facility at Mahalaxmi Racecourse, he questioned the need for government expenditure on the project, emphasizing that any redevelopment should prioritize heritage and public accessibility.
Regarding the Back Garden in Colaba, he alleged that civic authorities are acting under external pressure and urged the preservation of open public spaces rather than converting playgrounds into controlled or commercial facilities.
Thackeray called for an audit of playgrounds across the city that have undergone changes or redevelopment, claiming that such alterations could undermine public access and environmental sustainability.
He urged the Municipal Commissioner to prioritize public health and environmental safety when making decisions related to construction and urban development.
This appeal comes at a time when Mumbai is grappling with air quality challenges and infrastructure expansion, alongside upcoming civic body elections.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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