Ahmedabad Unveils Gujarat's Pioneering CNG Dog Crematorium
In a landmark move for animal welfare and urban infrastructure, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has inaugurated Gujarat's first-ever corporation-managed, CNG-based crematorium dedicated to performing the last rites of pet dogs. This facility, operational at the CNCD Animal Birth Control Centre in Behrampura, represents a significant step in addressing environmental and emotional needs associated with pet loss.
Addressing Environmental and Health Concerns
Officials from the Cattle Nuisance Control Department (CNCD) highlighted that traditional burial methods for dogs can lead to soil pollution, disease transmission risks, and space constraints. By adopting a gas-fired cremator, the AMC aims to mitigate these issues effectively. The cremation process, operating at temperatures between 800°C and 900°C, ensures the destruction of viruses like canine distemper and rabies, thereby reducing infection risks to other animals.
Emotional Support for Pet Owners
Naresh Rajput, Head of Department at CNCD, emphasized the emotional bond between pet owners and their dogs, noting that many consider them family members. "The need for dignified last rites has become essential, and this facility caters to that social and emotional need," he stated. This initiative is reportedly the first of its kind operated by a municipal corporation in an urban area across India, setting a precedent for other cities.
Facility Details and Features
The CNG dog crematorium, installed at a cost of Rs 30 lakh, has the capacity to handle three dogs simultaneously. Key features include:
- Eco-Friendly Operation: Equipped with primary and secondary chambers, the system is smoke-free, odourless, and complies with environmental standards, using approximately 14 units of natural gas for cremating two dogs at a cost of around Rs 700 per dog.
- Advanced Technology: An automatic trolley system transports deceased animals without direct handling, and a control panel manages the 4 feet × 3 feet × 3 feet cremation chamber.
- Human-Centric Arrangements: Inspired by human crematoriums, the facility offers CCTV viewing for remote participation, seating for six attendees, and respectful ash handover in an urn wrapped in red cloth.
Service Accessibility and Procedures
To avail of the services, pet owners must inform the AMC by calling 155303 and submitting the pet dog registration receipt. The AMC's "Antim Dham Jeev Seva Rath" then visits the location with floral garlands and puja materials, allowing owners to perform rituals before transportation to the crematorium. Options for online registration, donation services, photographs, videos, death certificates, and remembrance messages are also available.
Future Plans and Broader Initiatives
Looking ahead, the AMC plans to install two additional dog crematoriums to meet future demand. Currently, 16,843 pet owners have registered 19,162 dogs in Ahmedabad, benefiting from this project. The initiative aligns with the Animal Birth Control Rules–2023 and the National Action Plan for Dog Mediated Rabies Elimination by 2030, supporting broader efforts in vaccination, sterilization, and welfare activities for stray and pet dogs.
