Dust Pollution Rising in Pune: PMC Body Orders Sensors at All Construction Projects
Pune, 27th August 2025: With air pollution levels rising due to dust from ongoing construction projects, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has decided to make sensor-based air quality monitoring systems mandatory at construction sites. The move aims to ensure real-time tracking of dust pollution and immediate corrective measures when levels cross permissible limits.
The decision was taken in a meeting chaired by Additional Commissioner Prithviraj B.P., attended by City Engineer Prashant Waghmare, Deputy Commissioner of Environment Santosh Warule, and Superintendent Engineer of the Construction Department Rajesh Bankar. Sree Kumar Kumaraswamy, Director of WRI India, gave a presentation on sensor-based monitoring, while Warule introduced the initiative.
Officials highlighted that dust particles, particularly PM 2.5 and PM 10, are the main contributors to deteriorating air quality in Pune and other cities across Maharashtra. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has already issued guidelines making it mandatory for construction projects to install such sensors.
City Engineer Prashant Waghmare stressed the urgency of the step, stating, “Dust particles generated at construction sites are polluting the air. It is necessary for construction professionals to take timely measures to reduce pollution by installing these sensors without delay.”
Additional Commissioner Prithviraj B.P. further announced that a special task force will be formed to ensure effective implementation. The sensors will be connected to a central dashboard, enabling both authorities and citizens to monitor real-time pollution levels. “Strict steps will be taken to reduce dust at construction sites,” he added.
While PMC has previously issued notices to developers and provided a list of dust-control measures, officials admitted that builders were reluctant to adopt sensor-based monitoring. However, after this meeting, installation will now be made compulsory.
Dust pollution has been a persistent problem in Pune, with citizens complaining of respiratory illnesses and worsening health issues, particularly during winter. The civic body believes this step will help mitigate risks and improve the city’s air quality.
