Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday announced a series of strict measures to tackle the capital’s deteriorating air quality, directing authorities to enforce a complete ban on open burning. Along with this, the government has imposed a prohibition on the use of coal and firewood in tandoors across all hotels, restaurants and open eateries in the city.
The chief minister said that the district administration and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi can impose a penalty of up to ₹5,000 on anyone found burning garbage in the open. Appealing to the public for cooperation, Gupta stated, “We humbly request all citizens not to burn waste in the open. Your small cooperation can bring about a big change.”
Air quality improves slightly, but remains in the ‘poor’ category
The announcement comes at a time when pollution levels have remained consistently high in the national capital. Delhi’s Air Quality Index recorded a marginal improvement on Tuesday, settling at 291, which falls in the “poor” category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board. Despite the slight recovery, authorities remain concerned about the city’s prolonged exposure to unhealthy air.
On Wednesday morning, similar readings were reported across several locations: 283 in Bawana, 264 in Alipur, 313 in Jahangirpuri, 272 in Burari Crossing, 280 in Punjabi Bagh and 298 in Anand Vihar. Officials noted that although the conditions are better than the previous week, the pollution remains severe enough to impact public health.
Strict controls on coal-based cooking under existing pollution laws
The Delhi Pollution Control Committee has issued new orders under Section 31(A) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, reinforcing the ban on coal and firewood use in tandoors. The department noted that coal-based cooking continues to be a major contributor to localised pollution, especially in densely populated commercial areas.
These measures fall under Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan, which mandates early interventions to prevent a further spike in emissions. Urban local bodies have been instructed to carry out on-ground inspections and ensure immediate compliance.
Officials believe that reducing emissions from small eateries, roadside vendors and restaurants will play a crucial role in improving neighbourhood-level air quality as winter intensifies.