Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has announced the inclusion of a dedicated "Climate Budget" in its upcoming financial plan.

This initiative aims to ensure that funds are systematically allocated for eco-friendly projects designed to combat pollution, reduce carbon emissions, and restore environmental balance in the rapidly growing urban landscape.

Providing insights into the decision, Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh explained that the move is part of a broader strategy to address the increasing challenges posed by global warming, severe heat waves, and shifting weather patterns.

"Maintaining ecological balance is no longer an option but a necessity. With the rising environmental threats, cities must adopt measures that reduce carbon emissions, curb air pollution, and enhance local environmental conditions," Singh stated.

The inclusion of the climate budget aligns with international standards, where several countries, governmental agencies, and local self-governance bodies have already adopted similar concepts.

The decision by the PCMC comes after extensive research conducted by a private agency, which outlined a framework of guiding principles, policies, and procedures for the Climate Budget. The findings have been approved by the Commissioner and will be implemented in the 2024 fiscal plan.

Growing Population, Increased Pollution: A Dual Challenge

The need for a Climate Budget has become even more pressing due to Pimpri-Chinchwad's rapid urbanization. The city's population has soared to 3.5 million, and with it, the number of vehicles has increased to a staggering 2 million.

The city's expansion is marked by the development of massive residential projects, adding to the already high pollution levels. Commissioner Singh emphasized that the Corporation is actively working on a range of measures aimed at controlling pollution, which includes stricter regulations on air quality and sustainable urban development projects.

The new budget will prioritize initiatives that contribute to long-term environmental sustainability. These may include green energy adoption, improved waste management, and the promotion of electric vehicles to reduce the city’s carbon footprint.

Furthermore, the Climate Budget will allow the PCMC to better address local environmental concerns and take timely action against rising pollution levels.