The Bombay High Court has expressed concern over Mumbai's persistent air pollution and questioned whether a lasting solution could be found or if residents would have to endure post-Diwali haze every year. In light of the city's worsening air quality, the court suggested measures such as phasing out diesel vehicles and banning wood- and coal-fired ovens used by bakeries.
A bench led by Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice GS Kulkarni emphasized the importance of transitioning to CNG and electric vehicles to tackle pollution. During a hearing on a suo motu PIL addressing Mumbai's air quality crisis, the bench proposed limiting vehicle permits to CNG-powered options and gradually eliminating diesel engines.
Senior advocate Darius Khambatta, acting as Amicus Curiae, identified bakery ovens as a significant contributor to pollution, ranking just behind construction activities and certain industries. He urged the court to prioritize addressing emissions from these sources. In response, the court suggested stricter regulations on bakery ovens, particularly banning the use of wood and coal as fuel. The bench asked whether statutory regulations exist for such ovens and whether new licenses could be issued only if they comply with cleaner fuel standards.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), represented by senior advocate Milind Sathe, informed the court that notices had been issued to bakeries using traditional ovens, instructing them to transition to eco-friendly alternatives within a year. Additionally, Advocate General Birendra Saraf noted that establishments failing to meet air quality standards could face further action.
The court also criticized the lack of enforcement of its previous orders, such as restricting firecracker use during Diwali, which continued unabated despite its directives. The bench expressed disappointment over the absence of proactive measures by authorities to improve air quality, highlighting the significant impact of construction activities on pollution. It called for immediate action to address the root causes of Mumbai's deteriorating air quality instead of treating clean air and urban development as mutually exclusive goals.
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