Pune Municipal Corporation Mandates Air Quality Sensors for Large Real Estate Projects
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has made it mandatory for real estate projects costing Rs 500 crore or more to install air quality sensors. This initiative aims to monitor and reduce air pollution caused by construction activities.
Air QualityReal EstatePunePollution ControlSensorsReal Estate MumbaiAug 29, 2025
According to Santosh Warule, Deputy Municipal Commissioner of PMC, the decision was driven by the need to address the increasing levels of air pollution in the city. Warule stated, “The real estate developers have been lax in following the guidelines laid down by the CPCB, which has led to a rise in air pollution. By mandating the installation of air quality sensors, we aim to ensure that developers take the necessary steps to mitigate pollution levels.”
To implement this initiative, the PMC has constituted a task force committee. This committee will determine the specific types of sensors that should be installed at construction sites. The cost of these sensors can range from Rs 40,000 to Rs 4 lakh, depending on the parameters they measure. Warule explained, “The committee will identify the appropriate sensors, which must provide real-time data to our centralised dashboard. This will enable us to monitor pollution levels continuously and take immediate action if necessary.”
The Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) has already started implementing a similar initiative for construction projects exceeding Rs 500 crore. The PMC is now following suit, aiming to replicate the success in Pune. Warule noted, “We are working closely with the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and the World Resource Institute (WRI) India to ensure the smooth implementation of this initiative. WRI India, a global non-profit organisation, will provide technical assistance to help us achieve our goals.”
The CPCB has previously issued guidelines for real estate developers, including the installation of 25-feet-tall tin sheets around construction sites and regular sprinkling of water to control dust. Additionally, developers are required to wash the wheels of vehicles exiting the construction site to prevent the spread of dust on city roads. Despite these guidelines, many developers have been slow to implement them, leading to a rise in air pollution.
Under the new rules, the PMC will direct real estate developers to take immediate action if pollution levels exceed the set limits. Warule stated, “If the air quality at a construction site exceeds the permissible levels, we will instruct the developer to take corrective measures. If they fail to comply, they will face penalties. This is crucial to protect the health of the city’s residents and ensure that construction activities do not contribute to air pollution.”
Prashant Waghmare, City Engineer, highlighted the importance of this initiative given the rapid growth of the real estate sector and ongoing road construction projects. He said, “The air pollution in Pune has increased significantly due to these activities. Installing air quality sensors at construction sites is a crucial step towards addressing this issue and ensuring a healthier environment for everyone.”
The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve air quality in Pune and aligns with the state’s commitment to sustainable development. By monitoring and controlling pollution at the source, the PMC hopes to create a more livable and sustainable city for its residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new mandate by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC)?
The PMC has mandated that real estate projects costing Rs 500 crore or more must install air quality sensors to provide real-time data on pollution levels.
Why did the PMC introduce this mandate?
The mandate was introduced due to the lack of adherence to pollution control guidelines by real estate developers, leading to increased air pollution in the city.
What is the role of the task force committee?
The task force committee will determine the types of air quality sensors to be installed and ensure they provide real-time data to the PMC's central dashboard.
What are the penalties for non-compliance with the new mandate?
If developers fail to reduce air pollution levels as directed by the PMC, they will face penalties.
Who is providing technical assistance for the implementation of this initiative?
The World Resource Institute (WRI) India, a global non-profit organisation, is providing technical assistance to the PMC for the implementation of this initiative.
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