BMC to Issue Stop-Work Notices to Mumbai Bakeries Using Coal and Wood Ovens

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is preparing to issue stop-work notices to hundreds of bakeries in Mumbai that have not switched from coal and wood-fired ovens to clean fuels such as piped natural gas (PNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), or electric ovens.

This follows the Bombay High Court’s August 21 order, which refused to extend the July 8, 2025 deadline for bakeries to complete the transition to eco-friendly fuels.

Nearly 300 Bakeries Face Action

Out of 592 registered bakeries in Mumbai, the BMC revealed that 297 bakeries are still using fossil fuels, despite repeated notices. While 209 bakeries are in the process of transitioning, only 32 bakeries have fully complied with the directive so far.

The BMC first issued notices in October 2024, directing bakeries to stop using coal- or wood-fired ovens and shift to cleaner energy by March 2025. However, compliance has remained very low.

Court Rejected Extension Plea

In January 2025, the Bombay High Court had already fixed July 8, 2025, as the final deadline for compliance. Even after a revised BMC notice in February, only 14 bakeries made the switch, while 37 began transitioning. The Mumbai Bakers’ Association had sought more time, citing difficulties in installing PNG and LPG connections, but the High Court dismissed the request.

Subsidy, Waivers Ignored by Bakers

Despite support measures, uptake has been poor. Mahanagar Gas Limited (MGL) waived the security deposit for bakers in February 2025. The fire NOC requirement was also relaxed, and a 35% rebate under the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme was made available. Yet, according to BMC officials, only two bakeries applied for subsidies.

Strict Action Ahead

A senior civic official confirmed:

“We have directed our officers to begin issuing stop-work orders to bakeries that have not complied. They will only be allowed to resume operations once they fully switch to clean fuels.”