Mumbai Bakeries Pose Health Risk with Wood Fuel Use, Study Reveals

A recent study by an environmental non-profit has raised alarms over the use of wood as fuel in Mumbai’s bakeries. The Bombay Environment Action Group (BEAG) conducted a six-month survey of 200 bakeries across the city. The study revealed that 47% of these bakeries rely on wood as their primary fuel source.

Much of this wood comes from discarded furniture, increasing the environmental impact. The BEAG report highlighted the significant health risks associated with this practice. The use of wood fuel produces particulate matter (PM2.5) and volatile organic compounds, both of which pose serious health risks.

PM2.5 particles are particularly dangerous because they can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. This can lead to respiratory illnesses such as asthma. The survey also mapped out the areas with the highest concentration of bakeries using wood fuel. 

Byculla and Mumbai Central topped the list with 84 bakeries, followed by Andheri with 53 and Mohammed Ali Road with 39. These regions are at higher risk due to the large number of bakeries emitting harmful pollutants. The study further revealed that 72 bakeries released 80,381 kilogrammes of PM2.5 into the air. 

The environmental group also analysed alternative fuel sources. Electricity was the second most common option, used by 28% of bakeries. Another 21% of the bakeries use a combination of electricity and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). 

The report included a cost-benefit analysis, showing the advantages of transitioning to cleaner fuels. To address the issue, BEAG has called for a phased transition to cleaner fuel options. The group has suggested offering financial incentives to bakery owners to facilitate this change. 

The group has shared their findings with the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). BEAG emphasised the need for collaboration among government agencies, bakers, and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition.

The BMC has also acknowledged the importance of addressing this issue. As part of its Mumbai Climate Action Plan, the corporation has mandated that all bakeries must apply for licenses to switch to cleaner fuels by 2027.