Delhi Imposes ₹5,000 Fine for Open Garbage Burning, Bans Coal Use in Tandoors as Pollution Worsens

Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday announced strict measures to curb rising air pollution, including a complete ban on open burning of garbage. Authorities have been directed to enforce penalties of up to ₹5,000 on anyone found burning waste in the open, with both the district administration and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi empowered to impose fines. Gupta urged residents to cooperate, stressing that preventing open burning can significantly improve the city’s air quality.
Alongside this, the government has enforced a strict ban on the use of coal and firewood in tandoors across all hotels, restaurants, and open eateries. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee issued the order under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, noting that coal-based cooking has been a major source of localised emissions. The restrictions form part of the Graded Response Action Plan, marking a Stage-I measure aimed at reducing pollution during the current spike.
Even though the Air Quality Index showed slight improvement on Tuesday, recording 291 in the “poor” category, pollution levels across many parts of the capital remained troubling. Readings from various localities on Wednesday morning ranged from 264 to over 300, keeping health concerns high. Urban local bodies have been instructed to conduct checks and ensure immediate discontinuation of coal or firewood use in eating establishments.