India, Feb. 28 -- Ten days after the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) mandated that Mumbai's bakeries transition from wood and coal-fired ovens to cleaner fuel by July 8, the Bombay Bakers Association (BBA) has requested an extension of up to one year and financial subsidies to facilitate the switch. The association, which represents and advocates for local bakery owners, met with civic officials on Thursday to discuss their concerns.

BBA members highlighted the financial and infrastructural challenges associated with the transition. Association president Nasir Ansari explained, "The initial setup cost for any alternative oven ranges between Rs.10 to Rs.12 lakh. Some bakeries operate in slum areas where obtaining a gas pipeline i...