Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai
Mumbai, Feb 21: Mumbai’s favorite street snack, vada pav, could see a price hike following the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) recent directive to phase out the use of wood and coal in commercial kitchens. The decision, aimed at curbing air pollution, is set to impact the supply of pav – the soft bread roll that forms an essential part of the snack.
As per the new mandate, all restaurants, dhabas, and bakeries in Mumbai must transition to eco-friendly fuels such as electricity, CNG, PNG, and LPG by July 8. This move follows a Bombay High Court ruling focused on improving air quality and safeguarding public health. However, the directive has raised concerns among traditional bakeries and Irani cafés, many of which rely on wood-fired ovens to produce their signature baked goods.
The Indian Bakers Association has urged authorities to reconsider, highlighting the significance of vada pav in Mumbai’s daily life. “Vada pav is a basic necessity for every Mumbaikar. Any disruption in its supply could create an unnecessary crisis,” the association stated in a letter to officials, as reported by PTI.
Vada pav, often dubbed Mumbai’s most iconic snack, is an integral part of the city’s culture. Consumed by everyone from factory workers to college students and Bollywood celebrities, it remains the go-to quick meal for millions. Every day, over two million vada pavs are sold across the city, cementing its place as Mumbai’s ultimate fast food.
Meanwhile, former BJP corporator Makarand Narwekar has demanded heritage status for Mumbai’s historic cafés and bakeries. In a letter to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Narwekar argued that Irani cafés are an essential part of Mumbai’s culinary history and that wood-fired ovens play a crucial role in their distinct flavors.
“The taste and aroma of their baked goods are directly linked to traditional wood and charcoal ovens. For generations, Mumbaikars have cherished this unique culinary experience, and switching to alternative ovens will alter its essence,” Narwekar stated.
He further pointed out that global heritage policies allow exceptions for traditional cooking methods. “In New York, historic restaurants are exempt from such regulations, while in the Netherlands, centuries-old windmills in urban areas are preserved as national heritage,” he noted, urging the Maharashtra government to adopt similar measures to protect Mumbai’s cultural legacy.
With the July deadline approaching, bakery owners, food vendors, and vada pav lovers alike are awaiting clarity on whether an exemption will be granted or if Mumbai’s beloved street food will undergo an inevitable transformation.