Pimpri: In a pioneering move that distinguishes it as the first and only urban local body (ULB) to establish a dedicated Sustainability Cell, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) is set to steer the city towards an inclusive, eco-friendly future. This initiative, aligned with both national and international sustainability goals, marks a new chapter for PCMC in urban governance by prioritizing social, economic, and environmental resilience for a future-ready city.

PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh, highlighting this development's significance, said, “The establishment of the Sustainability Cell signals PCMC’s commitment to a holistic model of sustainable growth. Focusing on data-driven monitoring and comprehensive project assessments, the cell will ensure that every project has long-lasting benefits for the community and environment. It will bridge departments, streamline sustainable processes, and turn innovative ideas into tangible solutions for a better Pimpri Chinchwad.”

The Sustainability Cell is designed to guide PCMC’s long-term sustainable development goals by focusing on six thematic areas (see box) critical to urban resilience and livability. Each area is strategically aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and will collaborate with other PCMC departments to establish project goals, monitoring frameworks, and accountability mechanisms for sustainable progress.

Role in driving a sustainable future

The Sustainability Cell will serve as a platform for assessing and elevating projects based on sustainability criteria, identifying areas for improvement, and encouraging interdepartmental collaboration. The Cell’s mandate includes the regular tracking of sustainability metrics, capacity-building programs for PCMC staff, and fostering partnerships with technical experts, research organizations, and funding sources.

Key goals

1. Enhanced Public Health and Quality of Life

2. Climate-Resilient Infrastructure

3. Inclusive Economic Growth

4. Citizen Engagement and Awareness

Thematic areas and focus of PCMC Sustainability Cell:

Environment Conservation: Air and water quality management, biodiversity preservation, waste recycling.

Sustainable Transport and Mobility: Electrification of public transport, development of cycling and walking paths.

Sustainable Urban Landscape: Green buildings, public green spaces, eco-friendly infrastructure.

Disaster Resilience: Risk assessment, emergency preparedness, resilient infrastructure.

Social Development and Inclusion: Gender equity, skill development, community engagement.

Sustainable Finance and Innovation: Climate budgeting, green bonds, partnerships for sustainable funding, stated a press release.