Ahmedabad: In a first for Gujarat, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has operationalised a CNG-based crematorium for pet dogs at the CNCD ABC Centre in Behrampura, offering a scientific and dignified last-rites facility for pet owners. The modern facility has been set up at a cost of ₹30 lakh and can cremate up to three dogs at a time.

The gas-fired cremator is equipped with primary and secondary chambers, ensuring that no foul odour is emitted during the cremation process. The machine operates at temperatures of around 800°C to 900°C, with a maximum capacity of 850°C, and uses approximately 14 units of natural gas for cremating two dogs, translating to a cost of about ₹700 per dog. The system is smoke-free, odourless, colourless, and compliant with environmental standards. The cremation chamber measures roughly 4 ft × 3 ft × 3 ft and includes an automatic trolley mechanism that transfers the animal to the cremator without manual contact, along with a dedicated control panel.

AMC said the initiative aligns with national animal welfare guidelines, including ABC Rules-2023 and NAPRE-2030, under which vaccination, sterilisation, registration, and treatment of dogs are already being implemented across the city. The crematorium also helps prevent soil contamination and the spread of diseases that may occur through burial of deceased animals.

Pet owners can access the service by reporting a death via the AMC helpline (155303) and providing registration details. Funeral arrangements, including ceremonial transport and documentation such as a death certificate and memorial message, are also provided. Owners may remain present during the cremation if they wish, and online registration or service donation options are available for unregistered pets.

With over 19,000 registered pet dogs in Ahmedabad, AMC plans to consider additional crematoriums in the future based on demand. Officials described the initiative as a humane public service that ensures a respectful farewell for companion animals.

Authorities added that burial of dead animals can pollute the soil, pose space constraints, and increase the risk of disease transmission, including infections such as canine distemper and rabies. Scientific cremation helps eliminate such pathogens and reduces the risk of infection among other animals. DeshGujarat