In a strong move to tackle worsening air quality, the Delhi government has imposed a blanket ban on the use of coal and firewood tandoors across the capital. The decision comes as part of enhanced pollution control measures under the Graded Response Action Plan, aimed at reducing emissions during high-pollution phases.

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee has also prohibited all forms of open burning, including garbage burning, at hotels, restaurants, dhabas, and street-side food outlets. All food establishments have been instructed to immediately switch to electric or gas-based tandoors in order to minimise harmful emissions contributing to poor air quality.

The directive has been issued under the Air Prevention and Control of Pollution Act and reinforced through GRAP provisions, making compliance mandatory for all categories of eateries operating in the city. Officials stated that the restriction on coal and firewood usage had already been identified as a critical measure to control emissions during severe pollution periods.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has further enforced a complete ban on open burning across the city and empowered district administrations and municipal authorities to take strict action against violators. Fines of up to Rs 5,000 can be imposed on those found violating the ban. In a public appeal, she urged citizens to avoid open burning and highlighted that collective responsibility can bring meaningful change to the city’s air quality.

To ensure effective implementation, municipal bodies and senior officials have been directed to conduct inspections across eateries and food establishments. Enforcement teams have been asked to ensure strict compliance with the approved fuel norms outlined by the Commission for Air Quality Management and related GRAP guidelines. Any violation of these rules will attract penalties.

As pollution levels continue to rise across India’s largest urban landscape, the move has drawn significant attention. The ban reflects the state government’s intensified efforts to address air pollution through regulatory action, enforcement, and public cooperation, highlighting the urgent need for cleaner practices within the hospitality and food service sector.