The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has commissioned a dedicated study to identify sources of air pollution and recommend mitigation strategies, responding to persistent poor air quality in the industrial and residential zones of Pimpri-Chinchwad. The project, valued at Rs 75 lakh, will be conducted by a specialised research institution affiliated with central government ministries, marking a proactive step under the National Clean Air Programme.
Air quality assessments in Pimpri-Chinchwad frequently register in the ‘poor’ and hazardous categories, driven largely by construction activity, dust emissions, and industrial operations, including Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) plants. “The study will provide sector-specific insights into the intensity and sources of pollution, enabling targeted interventions and policy measures,” a senior PCMC official said.
The research initiative will include a comprehensive sector-wise analysis of industrial, residential, and commercial areas. Researchers will quantify pollution levels, identify the primary contributors, and prepare a detailed action plan with clear recommendations for pollution reduction. The findings are expected to inform PCMC’s long-term environmental planning and urban sustainability initiatives, particularly in rapidly industrialising and densely populated zones.
To enhance municipal capacity, the project also includes training worksh ops for PCMC officials focused on modern air quality management practices. In addition, the civic body plans a 15-day public awareness campaign via radio, funded at Rs 10 lakh, to educate citizens on air pollution mitigation, health risks, and the objectives of the National Clean Air Programme. “Community engagement is crucial for achieving measurable improvements in air quality,” the official added.Urban environment experts emphasise that scientific, data-driven approaches are critical to tackling urban air pollution while balancing the needs of industrial growth and urban expansion. Such initiatives not only support regulatory compliance but also contribute to sustainable, low-carbon urban development, promoting equitable public health outcomes across the city.
PCMC’s research initiative represents a systematic approach to urban environmental management, combining monitoring, civic capacity-building, and public engagement. By identifying high-impact interventions, the study is expected to shape actionable policies, reduce particulate matter concentrations, and guide long-term planning for Pimpri-Chinchwad’s sustainable urban future.As cities like Pimpri-Chinchwad continue to grow industrially and residentially, integrating scientific research into municipal governance will be pivotal in ensuring cleaner, healthier air for residents and aligning urban growth with national sustainability objectives.
Pimpri Chinchwad PCMC Funds Rs 75 Lakh Research To Improve Air Quality
