Pune is making a significant push to combat air pollution with the deployment of advanced fog cannon machines. These machines, designed to tackle airborne particulate matter, will play a crucial role in enhancing the city’s air quality.
This initiative aligns with the government’s broader efforts to improve air quality in 130 cities across India, as recommended under the 15th Finance Commission.
The fog cannon technology is an innovative solution aimed at reducing the concentration of fine particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) in the atmosphere. These pollutants, known for their harmful effects on human health, particularly affect vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues. To mitigate this growing concern, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has procured five fog cannon machines, with each machine stationed in one of the city’s five administrative zones.
Each fog cannon machine is mounted on a CNG-powered truck chassis, with a 6,000-litre steel water tank and a 3 KW high-pressure pump. The machine uses 22 nozzles to spray ultra-fine water droplets, reaching a size of up to 50 microns, at a pressure of 10 kg/sq cm. This finely misted water is designed to capture and reduce airborne dust particles, leading to improved air quality on the roads. The machines are especially effective in areas prone to dust accumulation, a common issue in rapidly urbanising cities like Pune.
The deployment of fog cannon machines in Pune will initially focus on high-traffic roads and areas with significant dust pollution. Notable locations include Shivajinagar to Baner, Karve Road from PMC Headquarters to Warje, and Satara Road, extending from Swargate to Katraj and Kondhwa. Other areas like Solapur Road, Sinhagad Road, and various parts of Yerwada and Hadapsar will also benefit from this initiative. These regions, often characterised by heavy traffic and construction activity, contribute to the city’s dust pollution, which exacerbates the air quality crisis.
On April 3, 2025, PMC officials, including the Additional Municipal Commissioner, conducted a live demonstration of the fog cannon technology at PMC premises. The demonstration showcased how the machine functions in real-time, highlighting its potential to improve air quality on Pune’s roads. With the city’s growing pollution challenges, this move is seen as an essential step in addressing air quality concerns.
The fog cannon machines are part of a larger national effort under the NCAP to reduce air pollution and promote cleaner, healthier cities. While cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Mira Bhayandar have already implemented similar machines, Pune’s commitment to using this technology reflects the city’s proactive stance in managing its environmental challenges.
However, experts caution that while the fog cannon machines represent a promising solution, they are not a panacea for Pune’s air pollution problems. Experts stress the importance of sustained efforts to reduce vehicular emissions, promote public transportation, and enforce stricter pollution control measures. Additionally, there is a need for long-term planning to create a sustainable urban environment that ensures improved air quality year-round, rather than relying solely on short-term technological fixes.
The introduction of fog cannon machines in Pune marks an important milestone in the city’s journey towards cleaner air. As the city continues to grapple with the challenges of urbanisation and environmental degradation, it is clear that a multi-pronged approach, combining technology, public policy, and citizen participation, will be essential in tackling Pune’s air quality issues effectively. By adopting innovative solutions like the fog cannon, Pune is taking a positive step towards creating a healthier, more sustainable urban environment.
