Two-Year Delay Plagues Lucknow's Electric Crematorium Project
The Lucknow Municipal Corporation's ambitious plan to establish two specialized electric crematoriums—one dedicated to stray animals and another exclusively for pet dogs—has been stuck in limbo for more than two years due to unresolved technical complications during the tendering process.
Despite receiving official approval over two years ago, the ₹3.9-crore initiative continues to face significant hurdles that have prevented its implementation, leaving the city without proper facilities for animal cremation.
Technical Snags Halt Progress After Initial Approval
The project received formal clearance during the LMC executive committee meeting held on August 2, 2023, marking what should have been the beginning of construction. However, progress stalled shortly after the animal welfare department completed Level-1 tendering approximately one year ago.
A senior LMC official revealed the core issue: "The pet electric crematorium was supposed to be built, but after the Level-1 bidding was awarded, technical issues surfaced. This stalled the approval process significantly."
The official further explained the procedural dilemma: "There was consideration given to canceling and restarting the entire project, but once a bid has been officially awarded, it cannot simply be withdrawn without proper cause. This regulatory constraint has kept the project in a state of suspension."
Location Challenges Compound Project Delays
Initial planning identified land near the Shivri plant as a potential site for the crematoriums, with officials noting the location presented no pollution risks. However, this solution proved impractical due to accessibility concerns.
The remote location would have made transportation challenging and expensive for pet owners seeking cremation services for their beloved animals. Consequently, the civic body has resumed its search for suitable land within city limits to ensure convenient public access.
Currently, Lucknow disposes of between 40 to 70 stray dogs daily, utilizing methods that lack the dignity and environmental consciousness that electric crematoriums would provide. The absence of dedicated facilities for pets compounds the problem for grieving pet owners.
Broader Implications for Urban Animal Management
The implementation of electric crematoriums would represent a significant advancement in urban animal management for Lucknow. Beyond providing dignified final rites for animals, the facilities would operate on a reasonable cost basis while generating additional revenue for the municipal corporation.
The continued delay not only affects the city's infrastructure development but also impacts how residents can honor their deceased pets and how the municipality handles the substantial population of stray animals.
As the search for appropriate land continues and technical issues remain unresolved, Lucknow residents await a resolution that would bring much-needed modern animal cremation facilities to the city.
