Hinjewadi, Wakad Among Most Polluted Areas Due to Construction and Metro Work
Hinjewadi, Wakad Among Most Polluted Areas Due to Construction and Metro Work
Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad are struggling with dangerously poor air quality, with pollution levels touching alarming levels across several areas. Regions with heavy construction and dense residential projects—especially Hinjewadi and Wakad—are among the worst affected. The situation worsened further after Diwali fireworks, pushing Pune into the list of the most polluted cities in Maharashtra.
AQI Soars Ahead of Diwali
Even before Diwali celebrations began, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in many parts of the city had already crossed worrying levels. Bhumkar Chowk in Wakad recorded an AQI of 315, categorised as “very poor,” after a 37-point rise within a day. In other areas, Hinjewadi Infotech Park recorded an AQI of 196, while Bhosari stood at 342, Nigdi at 341, and Bhumkar Chowk at 313. The data reflects a sharp spike in particulate matter across Pune and its suburbs.
Construction and Crusher Plants Worsen Conditions
Residents in Pimpri-Chinchwad, particularly around Chawisawadi and Moshi, are also facing heavy dust and noise pollution from active crusher plants. Dust from ongoing construction projects is settling on homes, vehicles, and streets, affecting daily routines and air quality.
Metro Work Adds to the Smog
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that on Sunday, the AQI at Bhumkar Chowk hit 305 (“very poor”), while Shivajinagar’s MHADA Colony recorded 244 (“poor”). Paashan (121), Savitribai Phule Pune University (116), and Nigdi (108) had “moderate” air quality, whereas Hadapsar reported a relatively “satisfactory” level of 88.
Metro construction, along with large-scale residential and commercial projects in Hinjewadi, is contributing to the rising dust levels. Moisture from RMC (Ready-Mix Concrete) plants has made conditions worse for residents, students, and IT professionals. Fireworks during Diwali further pushed air quality to unsafe levels.
Citizens are now urging the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), and Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) to take urgent steps to bring the situation under control.
Officials Warn of Health Hazards
According to municipal reports, vehicle emissions, construction dust, and industrial activity remain the top causes of Pune’s declining air quality. Authorities have advised citizens to limit outdoor activities, wear masks when necessary, and take precautions to avoid health issues caused by prolonged exposure to polluted air.
