Pune: PMC Takes Steps To Combat Pollution At Vaikunth Crematorium For Cleaner Environment
Pune: PMC Takes Steps To Combat Pollution At Vaikunth Crematorium For Cleaner Environment
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has begun implementing measures to address the pollution issues at the Vaikunth crematorium. A recent meeting chaired by the Municipal Commissioner focused on tackling these concerns. Vikrant Latkar, a concerned local resident, raised the issue of assessing the quality of smoke emitted by the crematorium. He shared that when he inquired about the criteria for smoke quality checks, he was informed that the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is still in the process of developing these criteria. However, Latkar expressed hope that provisional criteria would be put into effect soon. In response, the Municipal Commissioner instructed that action be taken based on the provisional guidelines provided by Terri, a third-party institution.
Latkar emphasized the severity of air pollution in the area, highlighting that the PM10 levels had reached an alarming 367. He stressed the need for continuous air quality monitoring, pointing out that the current air filtration system was poorly designed and lacked proper capacity analysis, leading to thick black smoke circulating in the surrounding residential areas.
Manisha Shekatkar, head, Electrical Department, PMC echoed his concerns, confirming that both the CPCB and Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) are actively inspecting emissions from the crematorium. Shekatkar added that coordination with these agencies is ongoing to support their inspection efforts.
Further discussions are taking place with the company operating the crematorium to find ways to reduce emissions and improve pollution control. The meeting also concluded with several key decisions, such as conducting regular inspections of the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Vaikunth crematorium area and monitoring the health of nearby residents through the Health Department. Additionally, the PMC will provide a list of alternative cemeteries to grieving families to help reduce the number of cremations at Vaikunth crematorium.
To ensure a cleaner environment and better pollution management, the PMC’s Electricity Department will publish a list of existing cemeteries in Pune, while the Disaster Management Department will prepare a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for emergencies at the crematorium. Through these efforts, the PMC aims to reduce pollution levels and create a safer, healthier environment for residents in the area surrounding Vaikunth crematorium.
