Pune: PCMC Halts Construction Activities in Response to Deteriorating Air Quality
Pimpri, 15th November 2023: In response to the alarming decline in air quality in Pimpri Chinchwad, the municipal corporation has taken a decisive step to suspend all construction activities within the civic limits until November 19. The municipal commissioner issued an official order on Monday, enforcing this measure immediately.
Citing data from the Safar-Air App revealing a recent surge in Air Quality Index (AQI) levels over the past two days, the order emphasizes the necessity for immediate actions and preventive measures to avert further deterioration of the air quality. The decision to either relax or maintain the current measures will be contingent upon the AQI levels post-November 19.
Shekhar Singh, the Municipal Commissioner, explained, “Following slightly elevated AQI levels in the city post-Diwali, we have implemented an immediate halt to all construction activities. A comprehensive review is scheduled for November 19 to guide further decisions.”
The PCMC task force members have received instructions to diligently monitor the order’s implementation at the city level. Simultaneously, municipal corporation officials have been directed to intensify activities such as mechanized cleaning of roads and sprinkling water to mitigate air pollution in the twin city.
Referring to the High Court Of Judicature At Bombay Civil Appellate Jurisdiction Suo Moto Public Interest Litigation dated November 10, 2023, and the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) outlined by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) in their letter dated October 13, 2023, the order affirms that these measures will remain in effect until November 19.
