Pune Introduces Pollution Fees for Old Vehicles in Shivajinagar and Peth Areas
Pune, March 15, 2026: The district administration in Pune is gearing up to introduce ‘Low Emission Zones’ in strategic areas of the city, notably Shivajinagar and the old peth areas. This initiative aims to tackle the rising levels of air pollution. According to officials, vehicles contributing significantly to pollution may be required to pay a special fee to enter these designated zones once the plan is fully implemented.
The proposal was discussed at a recent meeting held at the district collector’s office. District Collector Jitendra Dudi, Pune Municipal Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram, and PMC Chief Engineer Aniruddha Pawaskar, along with senior officials from various departments and transport planning experts, were in attendance.
Multiple studies have highlighted that vehicular emissions are among the primary contributors to air pollution in Pune. A 2020 study found that approximately 46% of the PM2.5 particulate pollution in the Pune metropolitan region is attributed to vehicles. PM2.5 particles are extremely fine and pose serious health risks.
A survey conducted in 2023 revealed that nearly 70% of petrol, diesel, and CNG vehicles operating in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad are still running on Bharat Stage (BS)-4 or older engine technology. The central government has introduced Bharat Stage (BS) emission norms to curb vehicular pollution, with BS 6 being the current least polluting standard.
Studies indicate that a car registered before 2000 can emit pollution equivalent to nearly 11 modern BS-6 cars, while an old-technology truck can pollute as much as 14 new trucks. Particulate emissions from a BS-6 diesel car are about 90% lower than those from a BS-3 diesel vehicle.
Under the proposed plan, vehicles using BS-4 or older engine technology may have to pay a ‘daily pollution charge’ to enter the designated low emission zones. Vehicles that fail to pay the fee could face penalties. In subsequent stages, officials plan to extend the rule to BS-4 vehicles, and the low emission zones could be expanded to other parts of the city.
Authorities are also exploring the use of ‘camera-based monitoring systems’ to enforce the rules. A senior officer stated that the relevant departments have been tasked with preparing a detailed action plan for implementing the proposal. “Such measures, along with strengthening public transport and promoting cleaner mobility options, will help improve air quality and create a healthier urban environment,” the officer emphasized.
The implementation of these measures is expected to significantly reduce air pollution levels in Pune, making the city a healthier and more sustainable place to live.
