Pune: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has issued a stern warning to construction contractors and operators of Ready Mix Cement (RMC) plants to implement dust control measures within eight days or face strict penalties.

The move comes in response to a noticeable increase in air pollution levels, primarily due to rising PM 2.5 particulate matter across the city.

Large-scale construction and redevelopment activities are ongoing across Pune, with areas like Kothrud, Baner, Balewadi, Karvenagar, and Yerawada among the hotspots.

These projects generate significant dust, affecting air quality and causing inconvenience to residents and commuters. To mitigate this, the civic body has instructed contractors to adhere to previously established guidelines.

The guidelines include measures such as:

• Installing 25-foot-high barriers around construction sites.

• Covering active construction areas with green nets and spraying water to control dust.

• Spraying water near roads during peak traffic hours to minimize airborne dust.

• Transporting debris in covered vehicles to prevent spillage.

RMC Plants Under the Radar

RMC plants have also been flagged as major contributors to air pollution. Many of these plants are situated near rivers and busy roads, adding to the dust problem.

PMC’s city engineer, Prashant Waghmare, has directed the construction department to issue notices to RMC plant operators found violating pollution control norms.

“The roads near construction sites and cement transport routes must remain dust-free. Regular cleaning must be ensured,” said Waghmare, emphasizing the importance of immediate action.

Despite similar guidelines being introduced last year, compliance was observed only during inspection periods. This time, the PMC has vowed to conduct stringent checks to ensure sustained adherence.

With dust levels rising, residents across Pune have expressed concerns about worsening air quality and its impact on health. The civic body’s intensified focus on controlling construction-related dust aims to provide much-needed relief to affected citizens.