Only 48 of 356 Mumbai bakeries switch to green fuels, ahead of BMC’s July 8 deadline

As Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)'s July 8 deadline approaches, only 48 out of 356 bakeries using coal or wood have switched to cleaner fuels such as PNG, CNG or electric alternatives. A senior BMC official confirmed that show-cause notices will be issued to bakeries still using coal or wood post July 8. Failure to comply will result in closure, as per Bombay High Court (HC) directives.

In addition to bakeries, BMC issued similar notices to over 440 restaurants and eateries using charcoal tandoors. However, the Bombay Charcoal Merchant's Association has moved the High Court seeking relief. Many bakery owners are reportedly delaying compliance in the hope of similar concessions.

Bakeries using cheap wood and coal are among the city’s major sources of PM2.5 emissions (tiny particulate matter that poses serious respiratory risks). Many establishments, including street vendors and tandoor-based outlets, use low-quality wood or scrap furniture as fuel, releasing highly harmful pollutants into the air.

While compliance remains low, officials believe more bakeries may convert before the final deadline. BMC maintains that the order is non-negotiable, and action will be taken against those failing to comply.