In Vashi citizens are once again left gasping for breath as a sudden surge in air pollution blankets the area, triggering health concerns and raising alarm bells among locals.

Late into the night on 18^th February, 2024 Vashi's Sector 26 area witnessed a rapid deterioration in air quality, with levels soaring above 301 AQI, signalling "very poor" conditions. Residents reported symptoms including burning eyes, breathing difficulties, nausea, and headaches, highlighting the immediate impact of the pollution crisis on public health.

Blaming the increase in pollution on the clandestine activities of chemical factories in the MIDC area, residents expressed frustration over the recurring issue. Despite repeated pleas for intervention, the government and pollution control authorities have failed to address the root causes, leaving citizens disillusioned and fearful for their well-being.

In response to the ongoing crisis, the president of the Navi Mumbai Foundation issued a stark warning, stating, "We have been fighting about this for the past many years. But neither the government wakes up nor the pollution board wakes up. Therefore, will the government wake up only after an accident like Bhopal occurs in this place?"

As visibility dropped to perilous levels in Vashi's Sector 26 and Kopari village areas, residents voiced concerns over the potential for a catastrophic incident reminiscent of the Bhopal tragedy, urging authorities to take immediate action to avert such a disaster.