Deepika Padukone Raises Alarm Over Mumbai’s Poor AQI Levels, Says ‘Children Are Choking’

Actor Deepika Padukone has voiced concern over the worsening air quality in Mumbai, urging local authorities to take action as pollution levels in the city continue to rise.

The actor recently shared a hazy image of the city on her Instagram Story and tagged the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation and its public health department while highlighting the impact of pollution on residents.

In her message, Deepika wrote, “This city (& its children) are choking! How is this okay?” while asking the civic authorities for help in addressing the issue.

Air quality concerns in Mumbai

Air pollution levels in Mumbai have reportedly worsened over the past year, with several monitoring stations recording “poor” and “very poor” Air Quality Index (AQI) readings.

According to recent reports, the AQI in the city remained between 230 and 250 during February 2026. In certain locations such as Bandra Kurla Complex, Ghatkopar and Mulund, the levels rose to around 290, which is close to the “severe” pollution category.

Experts say construction-related dust is one of the major contributors to the increasing pollution levels across the city.

Civic action against construction sites

Earlier in January 2026, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation informed the Bombay High Court that 1,954 construction projects are currently underway across Mumbai.

Authorities stated that action has been taken against projects that failed to comply with pollution-control guidelines.

Construction sites were required to install sensor-based air quality monitoring systems by January 15, 2026. Following the deadline, around 662 sites reportedly received Stop Work Notices for failing to follow the court’s directions.

Deepika Padukone’s upcoming projects

On the professional front, Deepika Padukone will next appear alongside Shah Rukh Khan in the upcoming film King, directed by Siddharth Anand. The film is expected to release in December 2026.

The project also features Suhana Khan, Rani Mukerji, Raghav Juyal, Abhay Verma, Abhishek Bachchan and Saurabh Shukla in key roles.

She is also set to feature in director Atlee’s upcoming film AA22XA6 alongside Allu Arjun.