Alleged fumes from printing shops at KPCT Mall in Pune’s Fatima Nagar have prompted shopkeepers and visitors to seek inspections by the Pune Municipal Corporation and Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, with complainants claiming that the odour is affecting neighbouring businesses, clinics and coaching classes.
The complaints relate to large-format printing activity, including operations at Vision Printers in offices C-21 and C-22. Occupants of the commercial complex allege that fumes released during the production of flex banners and other printed materials spread to nearby establishments and have caused breathing difficulties and other symptoms among some people working in or visiting the mall.
A complaint email dated September 15, 2026, was sent to the regional office of the MPCB in Pune, with a copy to the Maharashtra Environment Department, according to the report. The complainants have also alleged that multiple complaints and emails were sent to the PMC and other authorities but did not result in an effective resolution.
The premises include a range of commercial establishments, including healthcare facilities, clinics and coaching classes. Occupants have therefore raised concerns about exposure among patients, visitors, students, employees and customers who may spend time in neighbouring units. Some complainants alleged that people experienced breathing difficulties, while others reportedly suffered vomiting and related symptoms. These reported health effects have not been independently verified.
The complainants are seeking an official inspection of the premises, an assessment of the emissions and a determination of whether the printing shops comply with applicable environmental and safety requirements. They have called for authorities to establish the source of the odour and assess whether printing activity is affecting other occupants of the complex.
The owner of Vision Printers denied the allegations that toxic emissions from the business were affecting neighbouring establishments. The owner said precautions had been taken, including construction of a wall intended to prevent the smell from spreading towards nearby shops, clinics and coaching classes. The owner also said exhaust fans had been installed to discharge fumes and claimed that the shop holds the necessary licences to operate.
Vision Printers is reportedly one of two or three printing businesses operating in the area. The complaints therefore concern not only one unit but the need to identify the source of the fumes across the commercial complex and examine the combined effect of printing operations, ventilation and the layout of adjoining premises.
The dispute places responsibility for the next step with the concerned civic and pollution-control authorities. Shopkeepers and other occupants are seeking intervention from the PMC and MPCB to inspect the premises, assess the alleged emissions and determine whether further action is required.
