Pune Plans India’s First Low Emission Zone

Pune is set to establish India’s first Low Emission Zone (LEZ) in Shivajinagar, a densely polluted area in the central business district. The initiative is being developed by the Pune Municipal Corporation with support from ITDP India and is linked to the Maharashtra Electric Vehicle Policy 2021.

Low Emission Zone

A Low Emission Zone is a designated urban area where access is restricted for vehicles with high tailpipe emissions. Such zones are used in several countries to regulate older diesel and petrol vehicles, and they usually rely on emission standards, entry charges, or outright restrictions.

Planned Coverage and Vehicle Rules

The proposed LEZ in Pune is expected to cover about 7% to 10% of the city area around Shivajinagar. The first phase is planned to target Bharat Stage-III and older vehicles, including vehicles registered before 2011. Owners of polluting vehicles may be allowed to pay a daily pollution charge for entry, while higher penalties are planned for non-payment.

• Autorickshaws are expected to remain exempt from the proposed restrictions.
• Public buses are expected to remain exempt from the proposed restrictions.
• Emergency vehicles are expected to remain exempt from the proposed restrictions.

Monitoring and Enforcement

The LEZ is planned to be enforced through Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras. ANPR systems use optical character recognition to read vehicle registration plates and are used for traffic monitoring, toll collection, and access control in urban transport systems.

Policy Background in Maharashtra

The Maharashtra EV Policy 2021 mandates Low Emission Zones in six cities, including Pune, for emission reduction under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). The policy framework links urban transport management with air quality control and electric mobility measures.

Related Urban Air Quality Measures

A 2023 survey found that about 70% of petrol, diesel, and CNG vehicles in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad were still using Bharat Stage-4 or older engine technologies. Pimpri-Chinchwad has also planned a city-wide LEZ under its Graded Response Action Plan, with implementation targeted by 2026.

Important Facts for Exams

• Bharat Stage emission norms are India’s vehicle emission standards, and Bharat Stage-VI is the current nationwide standard.
• The National Clean Air Programme was launched in 2019 for air quality improvement in non-attainment cities.
• Automatic Number Plate Recognition uses cameras and software to identify vehicle registration numbers.
• Shivajinagar is a major locality in Pune’s central business district.