Surat to Launch Gas-Powered Dog Crematorium Following Ahmedabad's Lead
The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) is set to establish a state-of-the-art dog cremation facility in the city, marking a significant first for the district. This initiative follows a similar project in Ahmedabad, aiming to address the growing need for humane and environmentally friendly disposal methods for deceased pets and stray animals.
New Facility in Bhatar with Rs 30 Lakh Investment
Officials announced on Wednesday that the cremation centre will be developed in Surat's Bhatar area, with an investment of Rs 30 lakh. This move comes as part of SMC's annual civic budget for 2026-27, where funds have been specifically earmarked for this purpose. The decision was driven by space constraints within city limits and the increasing demand for additional land at traditional burial sites.
Previously, stray dogs were buried by SMC staff at designated locations across the city. Pet dog owners also practiced burial at specific spots to create memories of their beloved companions. However, the new gas-fired cremation machine offers a one-time solution that is both efficient and sustainable.
Eco-Friendly and Automated Cremation Process
The gas-powered machine is designed to treat up to four dogs simultaneously, adhering to strict environmental standards. It operates as a smoke-free, odourless, and colourless system, ensuring minimal impact on the surroundings. As a fully automatic setup, it allows for cremation without direct human contact with the pets, enhancing hygiene and convenience.
Transportation facilities will be provided to assist pet owners in bringing their deceased animals to the centre. Additionally, seating arrangements will be made so that owners can witness the cremation process and collect the ashes afterward, offering a respectful and memorable experience.
Registration Requirements and Procedures
Dr Pradeep Umrigar, health department medical officer at SMC, outlined the procedures for using the facility. Pet dog owners must present documentary proof of registration, such as fee receipts, when bringing their animals to the cremation centre. For those who prefer home collection, SMC staff can be contacted via a toll-free call upon submission of registration documents.
"Owners who have not registered their pet dogs should do so promptly," Dr Umrigar emphasized. He noted that currently, around 700 pet dogs are registered in the city, and this number is expected to rise once the facility becomes operational. The tendering process for the crematorium will commence soon.
Broader Animal Management Efforts in Surat
This initiative is part of SMC's broader efforts to manage the city's animal population. Daily, approximately 80 stray dogs are caught and sterilized by SMC staff to meet a monthly target of 1,200 sterilisations. A comprehensive survey of stray dogs in Surat is also planned in the coming days, with an agency already identified for the task.
In addition to the crematorium, SMC is advancing plans for a biomethanation plant and an incineration plant in Surat. These facilities, with a total cost of Rs 8 crore, will process offal waste from mutton and chicken markets, fish markets, and leftovers from Sarthana Nature Park. Dr Umrigar added that the carcasses of stray dogs and cattle will be cremated at this centre using scientific methods.
The introduction of the gas-powered dog crematorium in Surat represents a progressive step towards modernizing animal disposal practices, ensuring environmental sustainability, and providing pet owners with a dignified option for their deceased companions.
