Mumbai's Legacy at Stake: The Battle Over Irani Cafes and Clean Energy Reforms

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's ban on wood and charcoal in bakeries might disrupt pav supply, affecting Mumbai's iconic street foods. The Indian Bakers Association raises concerns over economic viability and safety of alternative fuels. Politicians and bakers push for heritage status and reconsideration of the regulation.

The recent decision by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to enforce a ban on wood and charcoal at bakeries has sparked concerns among bakeries and politicians in Mumbai. The regulation, aimed at reducing air pollution, threatens to disrupt the local supply of pav, a key component of Mumbai's beloved street food.

According to the Indian Bakers Association, the switch to clean fuels is economically untenable. The association highlights potential safety issues with LPG and infrastructure challenges with PNG, arguing that alternative energy solutions could drive up costs, impacting both the industry and consumers.

While the argument intensifies, some politicians, like Samajwadi Party MLA and former BJP corporator Makarand Narwekar, call for a more balanced solution, advocating for heritage status for Irani cafes to preserve Mumbai's unique culinary history and allow traditional baking methods to continue.

(With inputs from agencies.)