The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has installed 33 Air Pollution Control (APC) systems across the city’s crematoriums.
This initiative seeks to significantly reduce emissions from traditional wood-based pyres, a practice that has persisted despite the availability of more eco-friendly cremation options such as electric and gas-powered alternatives. The newly implemented APC systems work by directing the smoke generated during cremation through advanced water scrubbers. These scrubbers filter out harmful particulate matter before the air is released, significantly reducing the pollution associated with wood pyre cremations. Given the high population density of Pune and the environmental concerns linked to cremation practices, this move comes as a much-needed response to air quality issues that have plagued the city for years.
Despite these efforts, a large percentage of cremations in Pune still rely on the traditional method of burning wood, a process known to contribute to harmful levels of particulate pollution. Residents living near crematoriums have long complained of health problems associated with the toxic smoke, which can aggravate respiratory conditions and other health concerns. The installation of APC systems is part of the city’s broader strategy to mitigate these risks and promote cleaner air for all its inhabitants. One of the most innovative elements of this initiative is the introduction of an incinerator at Naidu Kothi, specifically for the cremation of pets and stray animals. This new facility will not only address the ecological impact of animal cremations but also reduce the number of traditional pyres used in the city. This is an important step in lowering the overall environmental footprint of Pune’s cremation practices.
While the PMC is working to encourage more sustainable alternatives, including electric and gas cremation methods, there remains a need for greater public awareness about the environmental and health benefits of such alternatives. To this end, the corporation has partnered with environmental organisations to drive public education campaigns. Initiatives such as the ‘Green Farewell’ programme aim to highlight the importance of transitioning to eco-friendly cremation methods and making more sustainable choices in the face of rising pollution levels.
This move also signals a larger trend towards addressing air pollution at the community level. As urban centres in India continue to grapple with the dual challenges of traffic-related pollution and industrial emissions, city governments are increasingly turning to technological solutions to address public health risks. By focusing on pollution at specific, high-impact sites such as crematoriums, cities like Pune are taking the first steps towards a greener, healthier future. However, the path towards comprehensive change is not without its challenges. While the installation of APC systems and the promotion of alternative cremation practices are vital, shifting public perception and entrenched cultural practices will require concerted efforts from all sectors. The public response to these initiatives, as well as the effectiveness of these APC systems, will be crucial in determining whether this approach becomes a model for other Indian cities facing similar environmental issues.
In conclusion, the Pune Municipal Corporation’s introduction of air pollution control systems at crematoriums is a welcome step in the city’s ongoing efforts to reduce pollution and safeguard the health of its residents. As the initiative rolls out, it will be interesting to see how it contributes to the broader conversation about sustainable urban living in India, particularly in the context of cultural practices that impact air quality.
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