Mumbai: BMC Empowers Citizens: Launches Helpline to Report Pollution Violations
Mumbai, 27th November 2023: The Environment Department of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has introduced a helpline and a dedicated WhatsApp number for citizens to report pollution-related issues in Mumbai. The move comes after a month of implementing guidelines aimed at curbing pollution levels in the city.
Citizens can now register complaints about pollution, including issues like dust pollution from construction sites, by using the WhatsApp number 8169681697. The helpline and WhatsApp number are part of the civic body’s efforts to involve the public in reporting violations of pollution control guidelines.
Last month, the municipal administration issued guidelines to address the deteriorating air quality in Mumbai, particularly due to dust pollution from construction activities. Despite issuing notices and stop-work orders to non-compliant construction sites, there has been a perceived lack of adherence to the rules.
In response to the situation, a meeting was convened at the BMC headquarters with representatives from various authorities in Mumbai. Government authorities were once again cautioned to ensure strict compliance with the pollution control guidelines. As part of this initiative, the BMC administration decided to actively involve citizens in reporting instances of pollution.
Four options have been provided for citizens to register pollution complaints, including using the ‘My BMC 24 by 7’ mobile app, visiting the BMC website, contacting the emergency management department’s helpline number 1916, and reporting complaints with photographs through the WhatsApp number 8169681697. The BMC administration emphasizes the importance of public participation in enforcing pollution control measures and has directed authorities to take strict action against non-compliant constructions, including filing cases with the police as needed.
