On November 27, 2025, the Bombay High Court rejected the Maharashtra government's claim that volcanic ash from the recent eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia was responsible for Mumbai's poor air quality. The court observed that pollution levels had been problematic long before the eruption occurred. During the hearing, the judges highlighted that Mumbai's Air Quality Index (AQI) had consistently remained in the 'very poor' category, often exceeding 300. They questioned the effectiveness of current pollution control measures and sought solutions similar to those implemented in Delhi. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) indicated that it would activate the Graded Response Action Plan if AQI levels remained high. The court emphasized the need for intensified efforts to combat air pollution and scheduled a follow-up hearing.