Delhi Bans Coal and Firewood in Restaurant Tandoors Amid Rising Pollution Levels

In a bid to tackle persistently high pollution levels, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has issued a strict ban on the use of coal and firewood in tandoors across all hotels, restaurants, and open-air eateries in the city.

Delhi restaurants must switch to electric or gas-operated tandoors as part of pollution control measures by DPCC

The directive, issued under Section 31(A) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, mandates that commercial establishments switch exclusively to electric, gas-based, or other clean-fuel tandoors.

Key Highlights:

• The DPCC cited that Delhi continues to record Air Quality Index (AQI) levels above prescribed standards, with coal-based cooking contributing significantly to localized pollution.

  
  

• The order is part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), where banning coal and firewood in tandoors is a Stage-I measure to reduce emissions.

  
  

• Urban local bodies, including municipal commissioners and chief engineers, have been directed to conduct inspections and ensure strict compliance.

  
  

• Establishments are required to enforce the ban without exception, with electric or gas-operated tandoors being the only allowed alternatives.

  
  

The DPCC referred to the June 2022 approved fuel list by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and its modified GRAP order dated November 21, 2023, reminding enforcement agencies of the urgent need for adherence during ongoing pollution control measures.

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