Navi Mumbai: Despite pollution-control guidelines issued to civic bodies and other stakeholders, residents and environmental activists continue to question their implementation as air quality deteriorates across Navi Mumbai.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) National Air Quality Data Management System, the city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 101 at 6 pm on October 23, placing it in the ‘Moderate’ category, with PM10 as the prominent pollutant. Mahape recorded the highest AQI at 131, followed by Kopripada-Vashi at 114 and Sector-2E Kalamboli at 104. Nerul recorded 84, Sanpada 80 and Tondare-Taloja 95. Data for Airoli and Sector-19A Nerul was unavailable.

The Bombay High Court has reiterated restrictions on firecrackers on public roads, footpaths, lanes and silence zones near hospitals and schools. It directed the Municipal Commissioner and Police Commissioner to prepare a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and submit a compliance affidavit by October 26, 2026.

The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) Regional Office, Navi Mumbai, said guidelines had been issued to NMMC, CIDCO, MIDC, RTO, MMRDA, builders’ associations and other agencies.

An MPCB officer, requesting anonymity, said, “We have issued guidelines to all civic bodies falling under our jurisdiction, and governemnt agencies. Inspections are conducted regularly at industries and factories. However, we have limitations due to the manpower shortage.”

When contacted, NMMC officials acknowledged of receiving MPCB guidelines, but citizens complained of not seeing their effective implementation on ground. Despite the guidelines, residents continue to report eye irritation and breathing difficulties, problems suffered due the increased AQI. Thus, demanding stronger enforcement and coordinated action to curb pollution.