Bengaluru’s corporations, local bodies to get notice if AQI breaches 100-mark

Bengaluru: The state government announced Thursday that it will issue notices to local bodies if the air quality index (AQI) in Bengaluru or any other city breaches the 100-mark.

These notices will require authorities to improve air quality within a specified timeframe, failing which the forest, environment, and ecology department will take legal action, forest, environment & ecology minister Eshwar Khandre said in a statement.

Minister Khandre convened a meeting with senior officials in Bengaluru following persistent demands from Rajajinagar MLA S Suresh Kumar (BJP), who raised concerns about the adverse health effects of increasing pollution, particularly on children.


The government is currently monitoring AQI across 11 established locations and 13 mobile units in Bengaluru, the minister said.

Engagement with MLAs

The government plans to hold a meeting with 28 Bengaluru MLAs to prevent the city from transforming into another "gas chamber" like Delhi, as stated by the forest minister. Minister Khandre will also brief Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who oversees Bengaluru's administration, about the issue's gravity and request his leadership in a meeting with MLAs and senior officials to discuss remedial measures.

Bengaluru, once a haven for retirees and known for its mild climate, now faces temperature spikes attributed to global warming and climate change. The government vows to take all necessary steps, including enhancing the city's green cover, to safeguard air quality, the minister said at the meeting.

Khandre emphasized the city's increasing air, water, and noise pollution, urging cooperation from all elected representatives to address the issues. MLA Suresh Kumar specifically pointed out how road dust has deteriorated air quality, leading to increased respiratory issues among children. Medical professionals are reportedly advising residents to move to the outskirts, underscoring the need for immediate intervention.

Single-Use Plastic

Single-use plastic waste also presents a substantial challenge in Bengaluru. Minister Khandre urged local bodies and departments to collaborate on awareness campaigns targeting this issue.

The minister also sought a comprehensive audit from the environment department within a month. This report should include details on the operational status of waste treatment plants across Bengaluru and the state, their capacities, and the treatment extent of liquid waste. The report should also quantify untreated water reaching natural sources.

The government discussed at length the enforcement measures taken under the Water Act and Air Act to mitigate pollution in the city. The meeting saw participation from MLA Suresh Kumar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force Meenakshi Negi, Chief Wildlife Warden Kumar Pushkar, and Principal Secretary (Environment) Srinivasulu.