Maharashtra Govt Directs Civic Bodies To Develop Crematoria For Pets And Animals

In a big relief to pet owners in urban areas, the government has directed all the civic bodies across the state to develop cremation grounds for pets and animals. The authorities can levy a charge for the facility's usage, read a circular issued on Friday. However, it did not specify a timeline for building such special crematoriums.

The need of the crematoriums has been felt as no proper care is being taken while cremating the dead animals, underlined the circular. The municipal corporations, municipal councils and nagar panchayats will make available a space near the dumping grounds for the aforementioned purpose, said the directive.

The civic bodies will build a compound wall with a security system and ensure proper care while cremating the animals, including cows and pets such as cats, dogs and white mice, the circular added. The municipal bodies have been also advised to prevent the throwing of carcasses of the animals anywhere other than the crematoriums.

The move also aims to curb the practice of throwing carcasses anywhere in city areas, which results in nuisance and pollution. The state directive is based on a point of propriety raised by Shiv Sena MLA and transport minister Pratap Sarnaik in July 2023.