IIT Bombay Study Flags Cancer and Climate Risks from Pune-Mumbai Expressway Emissions

28 May 2025

Image Courtesy: Faruk Tokluoğlu/Unsplash

A new study by IIT Bombay, published in Nature’s Clean Air journal, reveals alarming levels of cancer-causing pollutants in the Kamshet tunnel along the Pune-Mumbai Expressway. The research found that older diesel vehicles—making up just 21% of the traffic—are responsible for the majority of emissions, dominated by heavy polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These not only raise cancer risk but also significantly contribute to atmospheric warming due to their strong light-absorbing properties. The study highlights an urgent need for cleaner fuels and stricter emission controls.

Click to read the full story: Times of India

Once again, IIT Bombay leads critical research at the intersection of public health and environmental sustainability, exemplifying its deep commitment to national and global impact.