Mumbai’s Pollution Trilemma: No Smoke Without Tandoor?

In January 2025, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) banned the use of wood and charcoal-fuelled ovens in commercial bakeries and eateries as part of the Mumbai Air Pollution Mitigation Plan. While the ban was aimed at curbing pollution, it triggered strong opposition from multiple stakeholders, including street vendors, small businesses, and consumers, who feared economic hardship, job losses, and the erosion of Mumbai’s street food culture. Critics argued that the BMC’s policy was abrupt and unfairly targeted eateries over larger pollution sources, and that there was inadequate infrastructure and support to switch to electric or natural gas ovens. The BMC faced a policy trilemma: could it effectively tackle environmental pollution while preserving the city’s vibrant food culture and ensuring the economic survival of local businesses?