The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has issued a circular dated November 2, 2023, directing the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to implement precautionary measures to address the worsening air quality in Maharashtra. The guidelines specifically focus on mitigating air pollution caused by trucks transporting demolition waste, emphasizing the full coverage of such vehicles during transit.
While the issued guidelines outline measures like covering vehicles carrying construction materials and demolition waste, maintaining continuous wet covering for buildings under construction or demolition, and adhering to vehicle standards and pollution checks, concerns persist over the effective implementation of these measures.
Non-compliance with the guidelines may result in severe penalties and the seizure of vehicles by relevant authorities. The circular also mandates the installation of vehicle tracking systems on vehicles transporting construction and demolition material. Failure to comply with these provisions may lead to the impounding of vehicles by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) or the Police Department.
Dr. Umesh Kahalekar, a Professor in Civil Engineering residing in Kharadi, highlighted the pollution challenges in the Kharadi to Wagholi area, emphasizing the need for covered vehicles carrying demolition waste to prevent dust particles from contributing to air pollution. He also stressed the importance of regularly cleaning dust accumulation near road dividers using mechanical sweeping machines.
In response, Mangesh Dighe, Environment Officer of PMC, assured that Pune’s Air Quality Index (AQI) is currently within satisfactory to moderate levels, and the PMC is closely monitoring the situation while following MPCB guidelines.
Nitin Shinde from MPCB stated that precautionary guidelines have already been issued to the PMC Commissioner, and if issues persist, PMC may issue fines or take further action.
Despite these efforts, concerns remain, prompting the need for stringent enforcement and public awareness campaigns to ensure effective implementation of measures and improve air quality in Pune.
