Modernisation of crematoriums under Namami Gange Mission

Modernisation of crematoriums under Namami Gange Mission

Modernization of crematoria is one of the components under the Entry Level activities identified under the Namami Gange Programme. The Government is recommending for Improved Wood Based Crematoria" (IWC) in place of traditional crematoria. Improved Wood Based Crematoria (IWC) operates in a traditional manner on wood only. However, it is capable of saving wood up to 50-60% as compared to the conventional method through incorporation of specially designed elevated pyre equipped with a hood and chimney to improve combustion efficiency and minimize wastage of heat. The wood is placed on the metal base, which enables better air circulation around the flames. On an average 200 to 250 kg of wood is consumed and the time for burning is around 3-4 hours per cremation. It enables users to perform all important rituals associated with the cremation process. Thus, besides being environment-friendly and fuel-efficient IWC is a method acceptable user. Electric crematoria may also be developed as per the local acceptance and towns/ cities where uninterrupted electricity is available.

Five Central Public Sector Units, namely, WAPCOS, EIL, NBCC, NPCC, EPIL have been recently engaged to carry out the work on Condition Assessment & Feasibility Study and Entry Level activities under Namami Gange Programme in their respective river stretches in Uttarakhand, UP, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal. They have surveyed 59 towns and identified 369 crematoria for up-gradation/construction. 64 crematoria have been recommended by the Empowered Steering Committee (ESC) till date.

This information was given by Union Minister of State for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Shri Vijay Goel in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

Samir/jk