Delhi Chokes: Govt Bans Coal-Firewood Tandoor

Dec 16, 2025 – Delhites, on Tuesday (December 16) morning, woke up to another day of hazardous air as the Air Quality Index (AQI) went past the 400 mark. Concerns over the rising pollution in Delhi and NCR has prompted Delhi Pollution Control Committee to issue strict directives banning the use of coal and firewood in tandoors at all hotels, restaurants and open eateries across the city.

Air pollution has reached severe levels across North India, particularly in Delhi and the NCR. On Monday (December 15) in some areas, the AQI touched 500 and the resulting smog and fog severely disrupted daily life.

In view of the serious health crisis caused by pollution, the United Kingdom, Canada and Singapore have issued health advisories for their citizens.

At Delhi Airport, visibility dropped to less than 50 metres, leading to the cancellation of around 170 flights, while more than 300 flights were delayed. Passengers were forced to wait for hours at airport terminals. Similarly, more than 50 trains were delayed, and the routes of several others were diverted. Poor visibility owintg  to fog and smog also caused multiple road accidents.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has said that the pollution is affecting the poor the most, while activities that cause pollution are often carried out by the affluent. This statement was made by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant while hearing a case related to pollution in the Delhi NCR on Monday.

Court-appointed amicus curiae Aparajita Singh raised the issue of children being made to participate in outdoor sports activities in schools despite restrictions. The three-judge Bench of the Supreme Court said they were aware of the problem and will pass only such orders that are effective.

The matter will be heard again in the Supreme Court on December 17.

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