Pune, 16 March 2026: Authorities have begun exploring the implementation of a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) in the Shivajinagar and Peth areas to tackle rising air pollution in the city. The proposal includes charging a pollution fee for vehicles that emit higher levels of pollutants, particularly those using older engine technologies.
The proposal was discussed during a meeting held at the District Collector’s office, attended by District Collector Jitendra Dudi, Municipal Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram, Chief Engineer Aniruddha Pawaskar, along with transport planning experts and senior officials.
Studies have shown that vehicular emissions are a major contributor to Pune’s air pollution. According to a 2020 study, nearly 46 percent of PM2.5 pollution in the Pune metropolitan region comes from vehicles. These fine particulate matters are considered highly harmful to human health.
A 2023 survey also revealed that around 70 percent of vehicles in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad still use Bharat Stage-4 or older engine technologies, which emit significantly more pollutants compared to the latest Bharat Stage-6 (BS-VI) standards.
Officials noted that a car registered before 2000 can emit as much pollution as 11 modern BS-VI cars, while an older truck can produce emissions equivalent to about 14 modern trucks. Additionally, BS-VI diesel cars release nearly 90 percent fewer particulate emissions compared to BS-III diesel vehicles.
Against this backdrop, the administration is considering restricting the entry of BS-III or older vehicles into the proposed Low Emission Zone. Such vehicles may have to pay a daily pollution fee to enter the area, and those violating the rules could face penalties.
In future phases, the rule may also be extended to BS-IV vehicles, and the Low Emission Zone could be expanded to other parts of the city. Authorities are also considering the use of CCTV cameras to monitor and enforce the system.
Officials said the initiative will be part of a broader plan to build a healthier and cleaner urban environment. The administration is also planning measures such as improving pedestrian-friendly footpaths, strengthening public transport, expanding bus services, and promoting alternative mobility options.
A detailed roadmap for implementing these measures is expected to be prepared in the coming months as Pune continues to look for long-term solutions to its growing air pollution problem.
