Pune Reduces PM2.5 by 20%, Pimpri-Chinchwad Struggles
Pune has made remarkable strides in improving its air quality over the past five years, with a significant 20.7% reduction in its annual average PM2.5 levels. From 47.9 µg/m³ in 2019, the city’s PM2.5 levels dropped to 38 µg/m³ in 2024, according to a new comprehensive report on air quality improvements under India’s National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). This achievement, however, contrasts sharply with the ongoing air quality challenges faced by its neighbour, Pimpri-Chinchwad, which recorded a PM2.5 level of 51.8 µg/m³ in 2024, marking only a marginal improvement from 54.3 µg/m³ in the previous year.
PM2.5, or particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, is a key indicator of air pollution, known for its ability to penetrate the respiratory system and pose significant health risks. This fine particulate matter, often emitted from vehicles, industries, and construction sites, is considered a major environmental health threat. Pune’s recent success in reducing PM2.5 levels stands as a testament to the city’s ongoing efforts to address urban air pollution through improved public transport, stricter industrial emissions regulations, and more effective dust control measures. However, the situation in Pimpri-Chinchwad, a major industrial hub, remains far more challenging.
Pimpri-Chinchwad continues to grapple with high pollution levels, largely driven by industrial emissions and traffic congestion, particularly in key areas like the MIDC industrial zones and along major roads such as the Pune-Mumbai highway. According to the report published by Respier Living Sciences, the environmental improvements in Pune contrast with the stagnant air quality in Pimpri-Chinchwad, where vehicular emissions and industrial activity contribute to high pollution spikes, especially during the colder months when reduced air dispersion exacerbates the situation.
Despite Pune’s success, the report stresses the need for a more collaborative, region-wide approach to air quality management. Ronak Sutaria, founder of Respirer Living Sciences, highlighted the importance of localised and coordinated measures, particularly across the Pune Metropolitan Region (PMR), to tackle pollution hotspots. He emphasized that while Pune’s progress is commendable, the stark difference in air quality between Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad underscores the urgent need for a unified air quality management strategy. The report recommends accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), enforcing stricter regulations on construction activities, and expanding initiatives such as road sprinkling to reduce dust pollution.
The sustainability of urban air quality in India is at a crossroads, and cities like Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad provide a crucial case study. Pune’s efforts offer valuable lessons in managing urban pollution, but they also highlight the need for a broader, more integrated regional approach. To achieve lasting improvements in air quality, a balance between industrial growth and environmental sustainability must be struck. This involves both government-led initiatives and grassroots awareness campaigns that focus on reducing emissions from transport, industry, and household activities. The health of the urban population, especially in rapidly growing metros, depends on such integrated, forward-thinking approaches.
As Pune continues to make headway in its air quality journey, the spotlight now turns to the surrounding cities. With sustained efforts and collaboration, the PMR can achieve cleaner, healthier air, driving not only environmental progress but also public health and sustainable urban living.
