Pune: Low Emission Zone Proposed For Shivajinagar, Peth Areas To Reduce Air Pollution
Pune: Low Emission Zone Proposed For Shivajinagar, Peth Areas To Reduce Air Pollution
Pune, March 16, 2026: The administration is considering the implementation of a ‘Low Emission Zone’ (LEZ) in the Shivajinagar and Peth areas of Pune as part of efforts to control rising air pollution levels in the city. Under the proposed plan, vehicles that cause higher emissions may be required to pay a special pollution charge to enter the designated zones.
The proposal was discussed during a recent meeting held at the District Collector’s Office, attended by Jitendra Dudi, District Collector of Pune, Naval Kishore Ram, Commissioner of the Pune Municipal Corporation, and Aniruddha Pawaskar, Chief Engineer of the civic body. Senior officials from various departments and experts in traffic planning also participated in the discussion.
Studies have indicated that vehicular emissions are the primary contributor to air pollution in Pune. According to a 2020 study, around 46 percent of PM2.5 particulate pollution in the Pune metropolitan region is caused by vehicles. These fine particulate matters are considered highly harmful to human health.
A 2023 survey also revealed that nearly 70 percent of petrol, diesel and CNG vehicles operating in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad use Bharat Stage-4 or older engine technology. The central government has introduced Bharat Stage emission norms to control vehicular pollution, with Bharat Stage-6 currently considered the least polluting standard.
Research findings highlight the impact of older vehicles on pollution levels. A car registered before the year 2000 emits pollution equivalent to about 11 modern Bharat Stage-6 cars, while an older truck can produce emissions comparable to around 14 modern trucks. Additionally, a Bharat Stage-6 diesel car emits nearly 90 percent less particulate matter than a Bharat Stage-3 diesel car.
Against this backdrop, the administration is exploring the possibility of implementing the Low Emission Zone in the Shivajinagar and Peth areas. Vehicles with Bharat Stage-3 or older engine technology may be required to pay a daily pollution fee to enter these zones. Vehicles entering without paying the fee could face penal action.
In later phases, the restriction could also be extended to Bharat Stage-4 vehicles, and the Low Emission Zone may be expanded to other parts of the city. Authorities are also considering camera-based monitoring systems to enforce the rules.
During the meeting, officials also discussed broader measures to reduce pollution, including improving pedestrian-friendly footpaths, strengthening public transport systems, expanding bus services, and promoting cleaner alternative modes of transport.
Officials noted that these measures could play an important role in creating cleaner air and a healthier urban environment for Pune residents. Departments concerned have been directed to prepare a detailed action plan for further implementation.
