Rising Dust Levels in Pune Linked to Road Works, Surge in Respiratory Cases Reported

Pune, 20th May 2026: While temperatures continue to rise, residents of Pune are now grappling with another growing concern — rising dust pollution caused by extensive road digging and infrastructure works across the city. Doctors have reported an increase in respiratory and eye-related ailments over the past two to three months, attributing it to high levels of dust in the air.

Across multiple parts of the city, roads are being excavated for underground water pipelines, drainage systems, electricity cables and telecommunication projects. However, citizens have raised concerns over poor planning, unregulated digging, and delays in restoring roads after completion of work.

Large piles of construction debris, soil and rubble can be seen along roadsides and at several junctions, further narrowing already congested stretches and worsening traffic conditions. In many areas, roads have been only partially repaired using mud, cement and gravel, resulting in uneven surfaces, potholes and accidents involving two-wheelers.

Doctors say the dust generated from ongoing construction activity, combined with vehicle emissions, is significantly worsening air quality and affecting public health.

“Dust from road digging and construction activities is increasing respiratory problems. Cases of red eyes, watery eyes, stye infections and eye irritation have also increased significantly in the last few months, especially among children, senior citizens and pregnant women,” the doctors say.

They added that illnesses which earlier used to recover within five to six days are now taking much longer to heal.

Citizens and activists have raised questions over whether contractors are strictly following guidelines during excavation work and who is responsible for monitoring compliance. Concerns have also been expressed about the lack of safety measures for pedestrians and cyclists during ongoing road works.

Responding to the issue, Rajesh Bankar, Chief Engineer of the Road Department of the Pune Municipal Corporation, said road repair work has now been assigned to regional offices and that the tender process has been completed. He added that repair works are expected to begin within a week.