Why Has Delhi Banned Coal & Firewood In Tandoors Across Restaurants & Hotels?

Amid rising AQI levels in the capital, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has now banned the use of coal and firewood in tandoors across hotels and restaurants in the city. Authorities can also impose a fine on anyone found burning garbage in the open. Here is everything you need to know about these new rules. 

Delhi Bans Coal & Firewood In Tandoors To Control Pollution

Pollution levels in Delhi are getting worse. The air feels suffocating, and many Delhiites are suffering from cough, irritation in the eyes, difficulty breathing and many other health problems. Authorities are working to bring down the AQI levels, but Delhi is showing no significant improvement. Now, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has come up with another rule. According to a report by NDTV, there is now a strict ban on the use of coal and firewood in tandoors. This ban applies to all hotels, restaurants and open eateries in the city.

The order is issued under Section 31(A) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. All these hotels and restaurants will now be allowed to use only electric, gas-based and other clean-fuel appliances. Reportedly, coal-based cooking is a significant contributor to localised pollution in the city. Authorities expect this ban to help bring down the AQI levels in the capital.

Also Read: Delhi & Mumbai’s Rising AQI Equals Smoking 7 Cigarettes Daily; Here Are 5 Tips To Stay Safe

Fine For Burning Garbage In The Open

Amid rising pollution levels, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has also made an important announcement on her official X account. Strict instructions have now been given to the Environment Department to ensure a complete ban on open burning. The district administration and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi can now impose a fine of up to ₹5000 on those found burning garbage in the open.

CM Rekha Gupta wrote, “We are continuously making efforts to control every small and large source of air pollution in Delhi. We humbly request that all citizens not burn waste in the open. Your small cooperation can bring about a big change.”

According to a report by Hindustan Times, the Air Quality Index or AQI is still in the ‘very poor’ category. These measures are being announced to control the pollution so that the city can breathe again.

Also Read: Delhi’s Café du Jardin Brings French Pastries Inside Asita Park With Yamuna Riverside Views

What do you think of these new rules to bring down pollution in the capital? Do share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

Cover Image Courtesy: Freepik/ fxquadro (Representative Image)