Wakad-Tathawade Residents Continue to Struggle with Air Pollution Despite Silent Protest

Days after residents of Wakad and Tathawade in Pune staged a silent protest against rising air pollution, little relief has been seen in the affected areas. Despite repeated complaints, dust pollution from ongoing construction projects, vehicular emissions, and industrial activities continues to impact the health and daily lives of locals.

Persistent Pollution Concerns

The Wakad-Tathawade region, known for its rapid urbanization and proximity to key IT hubs, has been facing severe air quality issues, with residents reporting:
✔ Thick dust layers on roads and houses.
✔ Increased cases of respiratory issues, eye irritation, and allergies.
✔ Poor visibility in the mornings due to suspended dust particles.

Causes of Air Pollution in the Area

🔹 Unregulated Construction – The surge in real estate projects has led to large amounts of dust and debris, worsening air quality.
🔹 Traffic Congestion – Heavy vehicle movement and rising vehicular emissions are key contributors.
🔹 Lack of Green Cover – Rapid urban expansion has reduced tree cover, affecting natural air purification.

What Authorities Have Done So Far

✔ Inspection of construction sites and warnings issued to violators.
✔ Water sprinkling in some areas to reduce dust.
✔ Plans for stricter enforcement of pollution control norms.

Residents Demand Stronger Action

Despite these steps, residents insist on long-term solutions, including:
🔸 Strict regulations on dust control at construction sites.
🔸 Increased green cover through tree plantations.
🔸 Better road maintenance to prevent dust accumulation.

What’s Next?

With pollution levels remaining high, locals continue to press for more stringent action from authorities. If air quality does not improve, residents may resort to stronger protests or legal action to demand cleaner air.

Would you like insights into Pune’s overall air pollution levels and comparison with other metro cities?