HC to MPCB: Assess effects of charcoal on air quality

The Bombay High Court on Monday directed the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) to assess the environmental impact of charcoal usage in bakeries, amid growing concerns over Mumbai's deteriorating Air Quality Index (AQI).

- Karuna Nidhi

MUMBAI: The court emphasised the need for a scientific evaluation and instructed the MPCB to determine whether charcoal is an approved fuel for bakeries.

The court initiated a suo motu case in response to the city's worsening air pollution, previously criticising the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and environmental authorities for their inadequate pollution control measures. It had explored various solutions, including a potential ban on traditional bakeries using wood and coal-fired 'bhattis,' urging a shift to cleaner fuel alternatives.