Delhi Bans Coal and Firewood in Restaurant Tandoors to Combat High Pollution Levels

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has implemented a comprehensive ban on coal and firewood usage in tandoors across all restaurants, hotels, and open eateries throughout the city as pollution levels remain persistently high.

New Delhi:

In response to the continuing high levels of air pollution in the capital, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee has issued strict directives prohibiting the use of coal and firewood in tandoors at all food establishments citywide.

This mandate was issued under Section 31(A) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, requiring all commercial food businesses to transition exclusively to electric, gas-based, or other clean-fuel cooking appliances.

The DPCC highlighted that Delhi consistently experiences Air Quality Index (AQI) readings exceeding recommended standards, with coal-based cooking methods being identified as a significant contributor to localized pollution levels.

These new regulations follow previous directives established under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes the prohibition of coal and firewood in tandoors as a stage-I measure aimed at reducing emissions.

The Committee referenced the approved fuel list issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in June 2022 and its updated GRAP order dated November 21, 2023, emphasizing that enforcement agencies must ensure full compliance during the current pollution control initiatives.

Urban local governing bodies, including municipal commissioners and chief engineers, have been directed to conduct thorough inspections and ensure that all food establishments within their jurisdiction immediately cease using coal and firewood.

According to the directive, establishments are only permitted to operate electric or gas-powered tandoors, and this compliance requirement must be enforced without exception.

The order, which received approval from the competent authority, has been distributed via speed post and email to all relevant departments for immediate implementation and action.