Delhi has imposed a complete ban on the use of coal and firewood in tandoors across the city as air pollution levels remain consistently high. The directive applies to all hotels, restaurants, dhabas, and open eateries, including street food joints.

The move is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to curb local sources of pollution as the capital continues to record Air Quality Index (AQI) levels above permissible limits.

What the Ban Means for Eateries

Under the new order, all commercial food establishments must immediately stop using coal and firewood-based tandoors. Only electric, gas-based, or other approved clean-fuel cooking appliances are allowed.

There are no exemptions. Open burning for cooking purposes is no longer permitted in any form.

Restaurants and food vendors are required to make the switch without delay, regardless of size or scale of operations.

Legal Backing and Enforcement

The directive has been issued by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) under Section 31(A) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

The order also aligns with provisions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), where banning coal and firewood in tandoors is listed as a Stage-I pollution control measure.

The DPCC has cited:

The approved fuel list issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in June 2022
The modified GRAP order dated November 21, 2023

These documents mandate the use of cleaner fuels during pollution control periods.

Why Coal-Based Cooking Is Being Targeted

According to the DPCC, coal-based cooking is a significant contributor to localised air pollution. Emissions from coal and firewood add to particulate matter levels, especially in dense commercial areas where eateries operate in close proximity.

With Delhi’s AQI frequently remaining in the “poor” to “severe” categories, authorities are focusing on sources that can be regulated at the local level.

Officials argue that reducing emissions from cooking activities is necessary to prevent further deterioration in air quality.

Role of Municipal Authorities

Urban local bodies have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of the ban.

Municipal commissioners, chief engineers, and other officials have been instructed to:

Conduct inspections across their jurisdictions
Ensure all eateries discontinue coal and firewood use
Enforce compliance without exception

The order has been circulated to all relevant departments via speed post and email for immediate implementation.

Penalties for Violations

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has also announced a wider crackdown on open burning in the city.

Violators can face fines of up to ₹5,000 for non-compliance. Authorities have made it clear that enforcement will be strict during the ongoing pollution control measures.

Repeated violations could invite further action under pollution control laws.

Impact on Food and Flavour

The ban raises concerns within the food industry, particularly among establishments known for tandoori cooking.

Coal-fired tandoors are often associated with a distinct smoky flavour, especially in items like tandoori chicken and naan. Switching to gas or electric tandoors may change cooking dynamics, even if recipes remain the same.

However, the government maintains that the priority is public health, not cooking preferences.

The Bigger Picture

The order reflects Delhi’s broader approach to tackling air pollution by addressing smaller but widespread emission sources.

While the long-term impact on air quality remains to be seen, the message from authorities is clear: coal and firewood-based cooking will no longer be tolerated during periods of high pollution.

For eateries, the choice is simple, adapt to cleaner technology or face penalties.

The question now is whether this shift will meaningfully improve air quality, or simply move the problem elsewhere.

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