A pet dog. (Image for representation)
Credit: iStock Photo
Bengaluru: In a major relief for animal lovers, Bengaluru is set to receive two additional electric crematoriums for animals, with the BBMP submitting proposals to create them. Currently, the city has only one animal crematorium in Sumanahalli, near the Outer Ring Road, which cremates nearly 400 animals every month.
Officials from the animal husbandry wing of the BBMP confirmed that plots of land have been identified in the Yelahanka and Dasarahalli zones for the new crematoriums.
“We have identified suitable land in these two zones, and their Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) are being prepared. The plan to set up these crematoriums was approved for the 2023-24 fiscal year, with a budget allocated, but land availability was an issue. Now, that issue has been resolved,” a senior BBMP official told DH.
The new electric crematoriums will serve pets, stray animals, and larger animals such as cattle. Several animal care NGOs in the city have agreements with the BBMP to transport deceased animals in ambulances and have them cremated at no additional cost.
At the existing crematorium in Sumanahalli, at least 14 animals are cremated daily, with a cremation fee of Rs 300 for dogs and Rs 600 for larger animals. However, animal lovers point out that the single crematorium is overburdened, and they have welcomed the BBMP’s decision to set up more facilities.
Sujaya Jagadish, animal welfare volunteer and secretary of Save Our Animals Charitable Trust (SOACT), advocated for separate crematoriums for small and large animals. “Waste pickers often end up transporting animal carcasses to the Sumanahalli crematorium, which is dangerous for them. More crematoriums will reduce the burden on the existing one, and separate facilities for small and large animals, along with stricter rules, are needed,” she said.
More in the pipeline
The BBMP has also acknowledged the need for an electric crematorium in the Mahadevapura zone, but has faced challenges in finding suitable land.
“We are exploring the possibility of locating space near a human crematorium in that zone. At least 2,000 sqft of space can be utilised for this purpose,” said Suralkar Vikas Kishore, BBMP Special Commissioner (Health).
These projects are expected to be included in the upcoming animal husbandry action plan for the city, Vikas added.