Surat: Following the lead of the Ahmedabad civic body, the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) will set up the district’s first dog cremation facility in the Bhatar area at a cost of ₹30 lakh.

Currently, stray and pet dogs are buried at designated locations, but space constraints within city limits have prompted the civic body to opt for a gas- or electricity-operated cremation system. Funds for the project have been allocated in the SMC’s 2026–27 budget.

The fully automated, eco-friendly cremation unit can handle up to four dogs at a time without producing smoke or odour, and transportation facilities will also be provided. Seating arrangements will allow pet owners to witness the process and collect the ashes afterward.

Notably, to use this facility, owners will need to present proof of pet registration, while home collection can be arranged through a toll-free request. Unregistered pet owners have been advised to complete registration. DeshGujarat