Tue Dec 16 19:51:45 UTC 2025: ## Delhi Eateries Defy Tandoor Ban Despite Pollution Concerns
NEW DELHI, Dec. 17, 2025 – Despite a ban on coal- and firewood-based tandoors in Delhi-NCR, implemented over two months ago as part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to curb pollution, a spot check by The Hindu reveals widespread non-compliance among restaurants and eateries across the capital.
The ban, enforced by urban local bodies like the MCD and NDMC, mandates the use of electric or gas-fired tandoors, with violations carrying fines ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹2 lakh. However, many establishments are choosing to ignore the regulations, citing affordability concerns and the perceived impact on the taste of traditional dishes.
“Most of the dishes we make involve a tandoor… It’s fast, affordable, and people come here regularly,” said Anil Singh, a tandoor operator in Malviya Nagar, highlighting the reliance on the traditional cooking method. Some owners even claim that emissions from ignited tandoors are minimal or that wood and coal are “natural” and less harmful than other pollution sources.
While some outlets admit to receiving fine notices, they continue to operate their tandoors, hoping to avoid detection. Others, like a worker at an eatery in Khan Market, stated they would only switch if strictly ordered, citing customer complaints about the quality of food prepared in gas tandoors during a previous trial.
An NDMC spokesperson claimed there were no violations in their jurisdiction, citing regular inspections promoting clean gas-fueled cooking. However, an MCD official conceded the difficulty in enforcing the guidelines, admitting that fines often fail to deter smaller eateries.
Conversely, some establishments have complied with the ban, switching to gas-based alternatives. A Chinese food court near Mandi House stopped using tandoors a year ago, and Jai Mata Corner, known for tandoori naans, switched to gas due to pollution concerns.
The continued use of banned tandoors raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of environmental regulations and the commitment of some businesses to address Delhi’s ongoing air quality crisis.
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