"Doomsday Is Here": Sonakshi Sinha Voices Concern Over Mumbai Air Pollution, Calls for Urgent Action

Mumbai is grappling with a severe air pollution crisis, prompting Bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha to voice her concerns and call for immediate action. On November 24, 2025, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Mumbai reached a concerning 265, categorized as "Severe". This alarming level has triggered widespread anxieties among residents, with Sinha joining the chorus of voices demanding urgent intervention.

"This is it, isn't it? Doomsday is here," Sinha stated in a recent social media post. "We can't even breathe properly in our own city. How did we let it get this bad? We need immediate, drastic action, and we need it now!".

Mumbai's air quality has been deteriorating for several years, with factors such as traffic emissions, construction dust, industrial activity, and inadequate dust control measures contributing to the crisis. A multi-year study indicated that PM10 levels in Mumbai consistently breach the national safety threshold of 60 µg/m3, not only during winter peaks but also in the summer months. The current primary pollutants are Particulate Matter (PM2.5) at 145.52 µg/M³ and Particulate Matter (PM10) at 130.19µg/M³.

The alarming air quality has prompted health advisories, urging sensitive groups such as children and people with breathing issues to limit outdoor activities. When the AQI is "Poor" or higher, reducing outdoor activities and using masks when stepping out is highly recommended.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has been under increasing pressure to address the escalating pollution levels. If any locality's AQI crosses 200 and remains high despite mitigation measures, strict restrictions may be implemented. These measures could include halting construction, shutting down polluting industries, and increasing on-ground policing. The BMC has already issued stop-work notices to 59 construction sites and ready-mix concrete plants.

The BMC has outlined a seven-step strategy to reduce air pollution emissions, including sustainable construction practices, road dust reduction, clean transport measures, sustainable waste management, urban greening projects, effective monitoring, and communication campaigns. Some technological measures being considered include fitting vehicle-mounted air filters on buses, setting up virtual chimneys at traffic congestion spots, and installing air purification systems in gardens.

While long-term solutions are being developed and implemented, citizens are encouraged to take individual actions to mitigate the impact of air pollution. These steps include using public transportation, reducing personal vehicle use, properly disposing of waste, and supporting initiatives that promote cleaner air.

The situation in Mumbai reflects a broader trend of worsening air quality in major Indian cities.

Sonakshi Sinha's strong statement underscores the growing public concern over Mumbai's air pollution crisis and reinforces the urgent need for effective and sustainable solutions. While the BMC has initiated measures, sustained efforts from authorities, industries, and citizens are crucial to ensure a healthier and more breathable environment for all.