New Delhi: In a fresh move to tackle worsening air pollution, the Delhi government has banned the use of coal- and wood-fired tandoors across the capital, triggering sharp reactions from street vendors, small restaurant owners, and sections of the public who argue that the decision disproportionately affects the poor while leaving major pollution sources untouched.
The ban applies to all traditional tandoors operating on coal or firewood at street stalls, dhabas, small eateries, and even high-end restaurants, forcing them to shift to gas or electric tandoors. Authorities say the step is aimed at reducing emissions as Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has crossed hazardous levels, touching 450–500 in several areas.
However, on the ground, vendors and customers say the decision reflects policy imbalance rather than pollution control.
“An ordinary citizen cannot afford five-star restaurants. Street food keeps families fed at ₹100–₹150. Is the government trying to kill livelihoods in the name of pollution?” asked a vendor operating a tandoor for over two decades.
Many traders pointed out that traditional tandoors are the backbone of affordable food, especially for daily-wage workers, while high-capacity diesel vehicles, trucks running overnight, factories, and dust-laden roads continue unchecked.
Restaurant owners who have already shifted to gas-based tandoors admit that taste and authenticity are compromised, as the signature flavour of coal-fired cooking cannot be replicated.
Environmental activists and policy experts have also questioned the priority of enforcement, stating that while every pollution source must be addressed, targeting low-income livelihoods first reflects flawed policy sequencing.
“Emissions from coal-based tandoors are relatively negligible compared to vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, thermal power plants, and construction dust,” said an environmentalist, adding that the weakest sections are being targeted instead of major polluters.
Citizens further alleged that poor sanitation, inactive cleaning staff, and dust-covered roads after monsoon silt remain bigger contributors to Delhi’s smog, yet systemic reforms in these areas remain slow.
As the city struggles with severe smog, low visibility, and health emergencies, the tandoor ban has reopened a larger debate:
Is Delhi fighting pollution — or merely shifting the burden onto the poorest?
