Hyderabad is set to witness a pioneering initiative by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) in partnership with People for Animals (PFA), aimed at providing pet owners with a dignified and convenient option for the cremation of their deceased pets.
This new service will offer door-to-door collection and cremation facilities, sparing grieving pet owners the logistical challenges during their time of mourning. Scheduled to commence soon, the initiative will deploy dedicated vehicles to transport deceased pets to newly established crematoria at Gopanpally and Gajularamaram, complementing the existing facility at Fathullaguda. The service will be available on request, with costs starting from Rs 2,500, varying based on distance. A senior official from GHMC expressed the purpose behind the initiative, emphasizing the desire to extend compassion and support to pet owners coping with the loss of their animal companions. The Fathullaguda facility, operational since 2022, has garnered positive feedback from the community, handling approximately 30 cremations monthly. Plans are underway to expand similar services in Secunderabad, Charminar, and Khairatabad zones, reflecting the growing demand and appreciation for such compassionate services.
In addition to providing convenience, GHMC aims to uphold environmental sustainability by introducing electric cremation services for pets. This step aligns with global trends towards eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal ecological impact while respecting the emotional bond between pets and their owners. PFA Hyderabad, collaborating closely with local authorities, underscored their commitment to providing year-round support for pet owners. They highlighted the accessibility of their services and encouraged pet owners to contact them directly for arrangements, reinforcing their role in facilitating a seamless process during difficult times. As Hyderabad prepares to roll out these enhanced services, stakeholders anticipate a positive response from the community, expecting the initiative to set a precedent for other urban centres grappling with similar challenges. By integrating compassion with practicality, GHMC and PFA aim to establish a benchmark in pet care services, promoting empathy and responsible pet ownership across the city.
