Development and Implementation of an Integrated Air Quality Index (AQI) and Liveability Framework for Krisala Hiranandani Unicity Township, Pune

Project Overview

The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), through its Sustainable Buildings Division, is providing technical consultancy support for the development of an integrated AQI and Liveability Framework for the proposed Krisala Unicity Township in Pune. The initiative is being undertaken in collaboration with VK:e and Krisala Developers to embed sustainability, environmental performance, and liveability principles across all stages of township development.

The project aims to create a comprehensive framework for evaluating and improving environmental quality, Air Quality Index (AQI) management, resource efficiency, and overall liveability throughout the lifecycle of the township, from pre-construction to occupancy and maintenance stages.

The framework covers key thematic areas including:

• Governance and sustainability management
• Social infrastructure and community well-being
• Transport and mobility planning
• Low-carbon and sustainable construction practices
• Landscaping and biodiversity enhancement
• Water infrastructure and conservation
• Solid waste management
• AQI management and environmental monitoring

The project adopts a phased evaluation approach covering:

• Pre-Construction
• During Construction
• During Part Occupancy & Part Construction
• Post-Occupancy & Maintenance

TERI Sustainable Buildings Division’s Rol

TERI’s Sustainable Buildings Division is leading the development of the project’s sustainability and environmental performance framework by providing technical guidance, evaluation methodologies, implementation support, and monitoring strategies.

The division’s scope of work includes:

Development of AQI and Liveability Assessment Framework

Preparation of a structured evaluation framework with criterion-wise benchmarks, compliance mechanisms, and implementation guidelines aligned with national standards and sustainability best practices.

Technical Review and Sustainability Integration

Review of township master planning, infrastructure systems, construction planning, and environmental strategies to strengthen sustainability integration and AQI-responsive planning.

AQI Management and Environmental Monitoring

Development of air quality management strategies, AQI benchmarking and monitoring mechanisms, dust mitigation approaches, and environmental performance indicators for different project phases.

Sustainable Construction and Site Assessment

Evaluation of construction-stage practices related to:

• Dust and pollution control
• Waste management
• Water conservation
• Worker welfare and safety
• Low-impact construction practices
• Environmental compliance systems

AQI-Responsive Landscape Strategy

Development of plantation and green infrastructure strategies aimed at improving environmental quality, thermal comfort, biodiversity, and long-term township liveability.

On-Ground Assessments and Performance Monitoring

Conducting site visits, technical assessments, and implementation reviews to monitor project performance against established sustainability and environmental benchmarks.

Project Impact

The project is envisioned as a model for integrating AQI-responsive planning and liveability-focused development within large-scale townships. Through structured evaluation frameworks, measurable sustainability benchmarks, and implementation-oriented strategies, the initiative aims to support:

• Improved air quality management
• Enhanced environmental performance
• Sustainable infrastructure development
• Climate-responsive planning
• Better resource efficiency
• Improved quality of life for future residents
• Long-term sustainability and resilience of the township

The initiative also demonstrates TERI’s ongoing commitment towards enabling sustainable urban development and advancing environmentally responsible built environment practices in India.