Pune: PMC Orders Air Quality Sensors And LED Displays At Large Construction Sites, Sets 15-Day Deadline
Pune: PMC Orders Air Quality Sensors And LED Displays At Large Construction Sites, Sets 15-Day Deadline
Pune, December 17, 2025: In a decisive move to curb rising air pollution levels, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has directed builders undertaking large-scale construction projects to install air pollution monitoring sensors and LED display indicators at their sites within 15 days. The directive applies to all ongoing and upcoming residential and commercial projects with a built-up area of 5,000 square metres or more.
According to an order issued on Monday by Additional Municipal Commissioner Prithviraj B. P., the mandated systems must be linked to PMC’s real-time monitoring dashboard. The LED indicators installed at sites will display live air quality data, enabling on-site engineers and supervisors to take immediate corrective measures to control dust and emissions.
“Failure to comply with PMC’s directions will invite strict action, including issuance of show-cause notices, stop-work orders and penalties, along with other legal measures,” the order stated. The 15-day deadline will be applicable to all existing projects, while new construction sites will be required to install the systems before commencing any work.
The decision follows sustained concerns over deteriorating air quality in Pune, with particulate matter—especially PM2.5 and PM10—emerging as a major health risk. Dust from construction activity has been identified as a significant contributor, with PM10 accounting for nearly 23 per cent of dust particles in the air. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has also issued directions to local bodies to tighten dust control measures at construction sites.
To ensure uniformity and reliability, the PMC had commissioned the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pashan, to conduct a co-location study and recommend suitable air pollution sensors. Based on the study, a list of approved manufacturers and devices has been finalised and made public. Builders have been instructed to procure sensors only from this approved list, which will be updated periodically by the civic body.
In addition to sensor installation, the PMC has made it mandatory for project proponents to strictly follow a comprehensive mitigation checklist aimed at reducing dust and air pollution. Measures include high metal sheet barricading along site perimeters, covering structures with green tarpaulin, regular water sprinkling and fogging, enclosed dust-generating activities, use of smog guns, provision of personal protective equipment for workers, tyre-washing facilities at exits, and ensuring construction vehicles carry valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates.
The PMC said the LED-based action guidance system would serve as the first line of response, helping site personnel take prompt steps based on dust severity levels, thereby protecting public health and improving overall air quality in the city.
