Pune: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has been asked to accelerate the utilisation of funds allocated for improving Pune’s air quality after the Maharashtra government flagged that only 61% of the ₹271.49 crore released so far has been spent.

PMC has been asked to accelerate utilisation of funds allocated for improving Pune’s air quality after Maharashtra government flagged that only 61% of the ₹271.49 crore released so far has been spent. ((PIC FOR REPRESENTATION))

In a letter dated August 11, Maharashtra environment and climate change department secretary Jayashree Bhoj directed PMC commissioner Naval Kishore Ram to expedite spending and submit utilisation certificates by September 5.

The funds were released under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and 15th Finance Commission air-quality grants between FY2020-21 and FY2025-26. The Pune urban agglomeration — comprising PMC, Dehu Road Cantonment Board and Khadki Cantonment Board — has utilised ₹166.24 crore, leaving ₹105.25 crore unspent.

The state warned that failure to utilise earlier allocations could affect eligibility for future fund releases. PMC has also been asked to upload utilisation certificates for the 15th Finance Commission grants on the PRANA portal by September 5.

Ram said the civic body has several projects planned to improve air quality and will ensure the funds are fully utilised. The plans include expanding the e-bus fleet and working with IITM to identify measures to reduce air pollution.

Bhoj directed urban local bodies not to park air-quality funds in fixed deposits. Existing deposits must be liquidated and the funds, including accrued interest, used for approved air-quality projects.