Mumbai Pollution Crisis: AQI Hits Unhealthy Levels, City Ranks 4th Among World’s Most Polluted

Mumbai is battling unhealthy air quality, with the Air Quality Index reportedly hovering between 166 and 202. The city was ranked fourth among the world’s most polluted cities in a report attributed to US-based IQAir, placing it above Delhi in the cited ranking. Residents describe breathing difficulties, disrupted sleep and visible smog, while raising concerns about dust, construction activity and environmental damage. Key contributors include construction dust, diesel traffic, congestion, vehicle emissions and weather conditions that can trap pollutants close to the ground. The Bombay High Court has also raised concerns over worsening pollution and questioned civic authorities. What is driving Mumbai’s air pollution, and what steps are needed to protect public health?