Residents along NIBM Road in Pune are grappling with persistent dust accumulation on their balconies, a consequence of ongoing construction activities in the area. Despite concerns raised by residents about the health hazards and inconvenience caused by the dust, construction projects, including road widening initiatives by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), continue to be delayed, exacerbating the situation. The lack of coordination among different departments within the PMC has resulted in stalled projects, leaving roads dug up and debris scattered, posing risks to pedestrians and commuters.
Moreover, the prolonged exposure to dust has led to health issues among residents, with an increase in respiratory problems reported. While residents have attempted to mitigate the dust by keeping their homes clean and shutting windows during construction, the rampant construction activities and the disregard for regulations outlined by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) persist. Despite directives from the MPCB to regulate pollution caused by construction vehicles, the situation on the ground remains challenging, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address the dust problem and ensure timely completion of construction projects to safeguard public health and well-being.