Pimpri: In a bid to reduce air pollution caused by the burning of coal and wood at bakeries, hotels, and roadside eateries, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation has taken a significant step towards promoting cleaner energy use.

PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh has approved a circular mandating the gradual replacement of traditional fuels with cleaner alternatives such as electricity or LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) at commercial establishments.

With the rapid rise in the city’s population, there has been a corresponding increase in the use of fuel for cooking and heating at various commercial establishments, including hotels, bakeries, and roadside dhabas.

Many of these businesses rely on coal and wood as their primary fuel sources, leading to heightened air pollution.

In light of this, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation aims to ensure that only LPG or natural gas is used at such establishments in the future.

The use of wood will be progressively banned, and the administration is drafting a phased action plan to make this transition as smooth as possible.

Burning wood and coal releases harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, including particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds.

These pollutants not only degrade the environment but also pose serious health risks to the city’s residents, contributing to respiratory issues and other health problems.

Commissioner Shekhar Singh emphasized the importance of moving towards cleaner fuels to improve air quality and safeguard public health. The newly approved circular reflects the city's commitment to reducing air pollution and promoting sustainability.