Delhi Cuts Coal Demand As Traditional Coal Tandoor Ban Targets City Air Pollution
Delhi is sharply reducing its coal demand as the city enforces a ban on coal and firewood-fired tandoors in restaurants, hotels, and street eateries. The move aims to curb fine particulate emissions that worsen winter air pollution, signalling a decisive step in tackling localised smog while encouraging widespread adoption of cleaner cooking fuels such as LPG and electric tandoors.
The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has issued the directive as part of an aggressive strategy to address the capital’s persistent air quality challenges. Traditional tandoors, reliant on coal and firewood, release significant quantities of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and sulphur dioxide (SO2), adding to the pollution burden in densely populated areas. While vehicular and industrial emissions remain the largest contributors to the city’s smog, experts note that thousands of eateries collectively elevate localised pollution levels, particularly during the winter months.Under the new regulation, all food establishments—from large hotels to roadside dhabas—are required to transition immediately to cleaner fuels. Acceptable alternatives include Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and electric tandoors. “Phasing out coal in kitchens is an essential step in reducing micro-level emissions that directly affect residential neighbourhoods,” an urban sustainability official said. The policy complements previous initiatives from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which seeks to eliminate all polluting solid fuels across the National Capital Region.
Implementation is expected to challenge smaller vendors, who often rely on coal due to its low cost and ease of availability. DPCC enforcement teams, supported by municipal authorities, will carry out surprise inspections, with non-compliance attracting fines and potential closure notices under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act. Industry experts suggest that government-backed incentives or financial support could facilitate quicker adoption of cleaner alternatives among small-scale operators.Beyond immediate enforcement, the ban reflects a broader urban strategy aimed at fostering healthier, sustainable city living. Cleaner cooking fuels not only improve ambient air quality but also reduce occupational health risks for kitchen workers and nearby residents. “This measure demonstrates how targeted policy interventions in everyday urban practices can cumulatively drive environmental and public health gains,” noted a senior urban planner.
As Delhi advances this initiative, the coal tandoor ban exemplifies a practical, citizen-focused approach to urban pollution management. By cutting coal demand in local kitchens, the city is taking a measurable step towards a cleaner, more sustainable, and inclusive urban environment, highlighting the role of everyday lifestyle shifts in achieving broader climate and air quality objectives.
