Home / Environment / BMC Blames Sea Salt for Mumbai's Murky Skies
BMC Blames Sea Salt for Mumbai's Murky Skies
24 Oct
Summary
- Sea salt particles contribute to Mumbai's haze, BMC states.
- Vehicles, construction dust remain major pollution sources.
- AI will help identify construction sites with faulty sensors.
Mumbai's skyline remains obscured by haze, with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) identifying sea salt particles as a contributing factor. These sodium chloride particles react with pollutants from vehicles and industries, intensifying the atmospheric haze. However, traditional pollutants like PM2.5 and PM10, originating from vehicular emissions and construction dust, persist as major sources of air quality degradation.
The city's air quality index (AQI) has recently been in the 'Moderate' category, indicating potential breathing discomfort for vulnerable populations. While the administration notes an increase in days with 'Satisfactory' air quality this year compared to previous ones, a comprehensive assessment requires sustained monitoring data.
In an effort to curb construction dust pollution, the BMC is implementing an artificial intelligence (AI) system. This AI will analyze data from pollution-monitoring sensors at construction sites, identifying those that are frequently non-operational. The system aims to pinpoint developers potentially tampering with sensors, enabling authorities to take appropriate action against around 3,000 identified sites.
Ahead of the Diwali festival, the BMC has urged residents to refrain from bursting firecrackers in public spaces due to air pollution concerns.
