Pune Citizens Alarmed by Severe Air Pollution from Water Tankers on NIBM Road
Kondhwa, 4th February 2026: Residents and daily commuters along NIBM Road in Pune have raised serious concerns over worsening air pollution caused by heavily polluting water tankers operating in the area. Citizens have urged immediate intervention by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), alleging repeated violations of emission norms by private water suppliers.
The issue came into sharp focus after a recent incident involving a tanker operated by Katke Water Suppliers. Commuters recorded visual evidence of the vehicle emitting thick, dark exhaust fumes while moving through the busy NIBM stretch. The dense smoke not only reduced visibility but also posed an immediate health risk to pedestrians, cyclists, and two-wheeler riders.
NIBM Road is a high-traffic corridor surrounded by residential societies, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. Locals say the unchecked movement of such “super-emitter” vehicles has led to multiple problems: Declining air quality due to continuous soot emissions, especially during peak hours. Increased accident risk as smoke clouds create sudden blind spots for motorists. Possible regulatory violations, raising doubts over valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates and vehicle fitness.
Citizens Demand Immediate Action Residents and civic activists have called on authorities to take swift and firm action. Their key demands include: Spot checks and inspections of water tankers operating in the Kondhwa–NIBM belt. Strict penalties against operators whose vehicles fail emission norms. Mandatory fitness and maintenance verification for tankers supplying water in residential areas.
“We depend on these tankers for water, but it should not come at the cost of the air we breathe. It is deeply ironic that a vehicle supplying a basic necessity is also polluting our environment so blatantly,” said a local resident.
As Pune continues to battle rising pollution levels, citizens say stronger enforcement and accountability are essential to ensure that essential services do not compromise public health and road safety.
