JOIN USPyre preferred mode of cremation again
Residents living in the vicinity of the crematoria complain of unhygienic atmosphere at the facilities and that foul smell emanates from the chimneys.
Introduction of electrical crematoria has saved hundreds of trees at a time when deforestation is rampant. It has also curtailed the cremation expenses quite low.
According to those who run BBMP crematoria, the cost difference between the traditional cremation involving a wooden pyre and the electrical crematorium is somewhere between Rs 3,000 and Rs 3,500. While wooden logs cost around Rs 4,500 to Rs 5,000, disposal of bodies at the electrical crematoriums costs just about Rs 1,000 to 1,500. And yet, those who run the cremation grounds are now recommending the traditional cremation, the reason being the objections raised by the residents living in the proximity of the crematoria.
Those living close to Shanthi Dhama at Banashankari have often complained to the BBMP authorities about the foul smell emanating from the crematorium. Rajappa, a resident said the height of the chimney was low and the entire area used to get filled with foul smell.
“Due to our sustained opposition, the Palike agreed to increase the height of the chimney. The problem is not solved completely but it has somewhat reduced the stench of burning human flesh,” said Rajappa who was one among the residents who had complained to BBMP.
The Palike wanted to set up an electrical crematorium at Chamarajpet Hindu cremation ground at an estimated cost of Rs four crore, but strong opposition to the project has forced BBMP to put the plan on the back burner.
10 traditional chambers
Utilising the same budget, the Palike has now built 10 traditional cremation chambers at the same site. It has increased infrastructure, such as a parking lot, bathing chambers, toilets, space to perform last rites and seating arrangements for relatives and friends of the dead.
“The cremation ground is located inside the residential area and it is quite obvious for residents to object for an electrical crematorium. Since they already knew the plight of people living near crematorium, they never allowed BBMP to install one here,” said Narasimha, crematorium in charge. Moreover, residents here were not happy about bodies being diverted here since Harishchandra Ghat has been closed for metro work.
Hygiene and maintenance are major concerns, like in the Wilson Garden crematorium where even Hindu burial ground is located. “The crematorium area is kept clean but burial ground and the surrounding areas need immediate attention. We have complained about the lack of cleanliness, but the BBMP is yet to react,” said Shiva, who is in-charge of the crematorium.
City crematoria
* Harishchandra Ghat - Srirampura
* Punya Dhama - Peenya
* Mukthi Dhama - Jalahalli
* Wilson Garden
* Mysore Road
* Padarayanapura
* Shanthi Dhama - Banashankari
* Bommanahalli
* Kallahalli - Ulsoor
* Hebbal
* Beggar Colony-Magadi Road