Overview
- District Collector Jitendra Dudi led a March 13 meeting and directed preparation of a detailed action plan, with PMC chief Naval Kishore Ram and chief engineer Aniruddha Pawaskar among attendees.
- The proposal would start in Shivajinagar and parts of the Peth area, charging a daily fee for BS-3 and older vehicles, with the option to later include BS-4 engines, expand coverage, and impose penalties for non-payment.
- Authorities are examining camera-based systems to identify vehicles entering the zone and to automate charging.
- Officials cite studies showing vehicles produce about 46% of PM2.5 in the region and that roughly 70% of Pune–Pimpri-Chinchwad vehicles are BS-4 or older, with very old cars and trucks emitting far more than BS-6 models.
- Discussions also cover improving footpaths, strengthening public transport, increasing bus services, and promoting cleaner mobility to support any restrictions.