NMC to add 4 more LPG crematoriums as ecofriendly options expand
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Nagpur: In a major step to promote environmentally sustainable last rites, the
Nagpur Municipal Corporation
(NMC) is set to add four more LPG-based cremation facilities at Manewada, Mankapur, Shanti Nagar, and Narsala.
The civil structures at all four sites are ready, and installation work will begin soon, said chief sanitary officer Dr Gajendra Mahalle.
A budget of Rs1.85 crore was allocated for the project in 2024-25. These new units will join existing
LPG crematoriums
at Sahkar Nagar, Ambazari, and Mokshadham.
NMC also operates six briquette-based units at Ambazari, Sahkar Nagar, Mokshadham, Mankapur, Manewada, and Gangabai Ghat, and diesel-based systems at Vaishali Nagar and Gangabai.
Wood-based cremation, however, remains available at all 21 crematoriums in the city. The civic body is also preparing to launch Nagpur's first electric crematorium at Mokshadham under the Nag River Pollution Abatement Project.
Despite the expansion of cleaner alternatives, over 70% of the city's 17,414 cremations in 2024-25 — around 12,260 - were still conducted using firewood. Civic officials cite deep-rooted traditions, limited awareness, and resistance to behavioural change as major hurdles. Experts warn that the continued use of wood-based cremations is contributing to poor air quality and rising public health concerns.
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