The ongoing road expansion initiative along Saswad Road in Phursungi, Pune, has significantly contributed to dust pollution, affecting the daily lives of residents and commuters. For several months, both sides of the road have been excavated, resulting in large piles of sand that exacerbate the dust problem. As vehicles travel along this route, they stir up clouds of dust, further deteriorating air quality. Additionally, construction debris, including pipes and rods, has encroached upon the already limited pedestrian space.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) launched the Hadapsar-Dive Ghat phase of this project in October 2024, with an anticipated completion date in December. This endeavor aims to transform the existing roadway into a four-lane thoroughfare.

Local residents report experiencing adverse effects from the construction activities for the past seven to eight months.

Umesh Dahake, a young cyclist, has been forced to abandon his bicycle due to the increased dust and heavy traffic conditions. “Cycling here is no longer feasible,” he stated. He now resorts to walking, which presents its own challenges. His travel time has significantly increased, exposing him to dust-laden air for extended periods, particularly during the late afternoon when dust particles linger in the atmosphere. “The worst time is in the late afternoon when all the dust settles in the air. It irritates my eyes and nose, and walking takes much longer, keeping me exposed to the dust even more than when I was cycling,” he noted.

Bus conductors from PMPML have reported severe traffic congestion, causing buses to remain stationary for extended durations. “We have to endure this dust all day. Many children use this route, and this situation cannot be beneficial for their health,” shared a PMPML bus conductor, who preferred to remain anonymous.

Students also express frustration over tardiness. Chhavi, a Class 9 student, mentioned, “I often have to call my mother to inform her that I’m stuck in traffic and will be late, which happens almost daily. My commute used to be much faster.”

Supriya Maheshwari, a domestic worker residing near Saswad Road, frequently traverses the construction area. “My children and I do struggle with the dust, but we’ll have to adapt, I guess,” she remarked.

Local fruit vendors are facing challenges as well. One vendor explained, “Customers are reluctant to buy fruits that have been covered in dust.”

The dust issue impacts not only street vendors but also established retail businesses. Monica Pramod, a cashier at New Big Mart located near the construction site, detailed the daily challenges for staff. “By the afternoon, our store is filled with dust. We have to clean much more often,” she said.

Construction regulations mandate dust control strategies, including regular water application, temporary barriers, and scheduled work hours. Abhijeet Aute, the NHAI manager overseeing the project, stated that while these protocols are being followed, it is challenging to keep the roads clear for cleaning in congested areas. The NHAI’s goal is to widen roads from 7 meters to 28 meters, which necessitates demolitions and inevitably generates significant dust.