Launching the Mumbai Forum for Clean Air

This Valentine’s Day, as we celebrate matters of the heart, I want to share something that deeply concerns the long-term health of your heart and lungs. In Mumbai, we are facing an escalating public health crisis that often goes unseen: air pollution.

While our city is known for its vibrant energy, it also consistently ranks among the top 10 cities globally for PM2.5 exposure. Scientific evidence shows that air pollution is no longer just an environmental issue; it is a leading risk factor for respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and even adverse pregnancy outcomes. These pollutants penetrate our lungs, enter our bloodstream, and damage every organ system—starting from the first breath a child takes in the womb.

To address this "silent emergency," I am honored to inform you about the launch of the Mumbai Forum for Clean Air (MFFCA) on February 14th, 2026.

What is the Mumbai Forum for Clean Air?

The MFFCA is a health-led, multi-stakeholder platform founded by the Lung Care Foundation and its initiative, Doctors for Clean Air and Climate Action (DFCA). Led by Prof. (Dr.) Arvind Kumar, a national authority on lung health, this forum brings together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and citizens to move from dialogue to actionable solutions.

Mumbai is uniquely positioned to lead this change. We are the first city in India to launch a Climate Action Plan, yet we continue to grapple with unhealthy air, particularly from construction dust, vehicular emissions, and waste burning. In fact, recent data indicated that October 2025 was one of the most polluted months of the year for our city.

Event Details

I will be joining the forum as a Nano Keynote Speaker to share clinical insights on how pollution impacts our daily lives. I would love to hear your views as we work toward a healthier, more sustainable future.

This Valentine’s Day, let us look beyond the usual traditions and commit to giving our children the most vital gift of all: the gift of clean air. Together, we can ensure that every breath taken in Mumbai is a healthy one.