BMC Enhances Animal Cremation Services with Two New Dedicated Facilities
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has officially operationalized two additional dedicated incinerators specifically designed for the last rites of animals and birds. These new facilities are located at Deonar and Mahalaxmi, marking a significant expansion in the city's civic infrastructure for pet and stray animal care.
Compliance with High Court Directive
Civic officials confirmed that the incinerators were made fully functional starting April 1. Their establishment directly responds to a directive from the Bombay High Court, which mandated the creation of proper cremation infrastructure for small animals across Mumbai. Previously, the city relied on just one such unit in Malad, which has been operational since 2023.
Additional Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Joshi emphasized the practical benefits for citizens. "This initiative will greatly assist residents by ensuring easier access to authorized cremation services for their beloved pets and for stray animals," she stated. "With facilities now strategically available across different regions, people will no longer need to undertake long and distressing journeys during difficult times."
Technical Specifications and Operational Details
The Deonar unit is situated at the local abattoir and is capable of handling animals weighing up to 500 kilograms. It operates using piped natural gas, which makes it a relatively cleaner and more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional methods.
In contrast, the Mahalaxmi facility has been set up at an animal hospital that is jointly run by the BMC and Tata Trusts. This fully electric incinerator can manage animals up to 50 kilograms, catering specifically to smaller pets and birds.
Streamlined Access Through Digital Systems
To simplify the process for citizens, the civic body has introduced a comprehensive online booking system accessible via its official website, vhd.mcgm.gov.in. Residents can register on the platform and schedule a convenient time slot at their preferred facility.
Furthermore, a dedicated helpline—7564976649—has been established to provide assistance and answer queries. Dr. Kalimpasha Pathan, head of the veterinary health department, highlighted this as part of BMC's commitment to user-friendly services.
Integration with Pet Licensing and Public Health
The BMC also offers pet licenses through an entirely online process. A notable benefit of this licensing is that it allows pet owners to cremate their dogs free of charge upon their death. However, officials acknowledged a persistent challenge: many pet owners do not voluntarily come forward to license their animals.
Veterinarians across the city are actively addressing this issue. During initial consultations with dog owners, they routinely emphasize the critical importance of licensing. Licensing ensures that dogs are properly vaccinated, breeds are accurately recorded, and the BMC gains a better understanding of the city's pet population. This data is vital for effective public health monitoring, disease control, and urban planning related to animal welfare.
The expansion of cremation facilities, coupled with digital access and integrated licensing, represents a holistic approach by the BMC to improve animal care services and public health infrastructure in Mumbai.
