We recently presented Gurugram MLA Rakesh Daulatabad with a petition requesting the construction of an electric crematorium. Mr. Daulatabad assured us that he would take up our request with the appropriate authorities, provided there is sufficient demand.

We are writing to seek your support for an electric crematorium in Gurugram.

A modern city like Gurugram needs modern, environment-friendly facilities.

The Millennium City, Gurugram, does not have an electric crematorium despite the fact that there were newspaper reports in 2008/2009 that one would be set up by the Municipal Corporation of Gurgaon. Gurugram does have a CNG crematorium, but this facility is rarely used due to the non-availability of CNG.

We have suggested that an electric crematorium be set up in Palam Vihar alongside the traditional one that is located near the DP School in Choma, near H and I Blocks.

The option of an electric crematorium would reduce reliance on the traditional method of cremation that requires an unsustainable quantity of wood. According to some reports, 50 to 60 million trees are burned during cremations every year in India. The Times of India reported in August 2018 that even in Delhi, which has electric crematoriums, 400,000 trees are lost to cremations annually.

The Aravallis,which acted as buffer against dust storms and climate change, are being systematically denuded as cities spread into its rugged green hills. Old trees are ruthlessly cut down to make way for high-rise flats and wider roads. While we talk about the importance of protecting the environment, our actions don’t always match our words.

The absence of an electric crematorium compels many Gurugram families that are committed to saving trees and the environment to take their loved ones all the way to Delhi’s electric crematoriums to perform their last rites.

We hope you will sign our petition for this essential facility and share it with like-minded individuals. Our goal is to reach 1,000 signatures by 31 March 2020. With your help we can achieve that goal, and by doing so have the convenience of a modern facility in our community and contribute toward protecting the environment.