The Tambaram City Municipal Corporation has taken a significant step to address a growing urban concern by approving a budget of ₹1 crore for the construction of its first dedicated pet crematorium. The facility is slated to come up in the Thiruneermalai area, falling under Zone 1 of the corporation.
A Response to Public Health and Environmental Concerns
Officials stated that the primary aim of this initiative is to ensure the safe and dignified disposal of animal remains. The move directly tackles the public health and environmental issues stemming from the improper dumping of deceased pets and strays. The decision comes at a critical time when Tambaram has been grappling with an increasing number of complaints related to stray dogs and a visible lack of proper channels for pet owners to handle the remains of their deceased companions.
Tambaram Corporation Commissioner, S Balachander, highlighted the urgent need for such a facility. He explained that the absence of a dedicated service has forced residents to resort to unsafe and unhygienic practices. "Our sanitation teams have repeatedly identified several dead pets dumped along roadsides during routine garbage collection drives," Balachander said. He noted that while some residents abandon the remains out of neglect, many are simply unaware of the correct and lawful method for disposal. "This glaring gap in civic amenities is precisely why we have decided to build a pet crematorium within the corporation limits," he added.
Construction Timeline and Public Reaction
The civic body has confirmed that the construction work for the crematorium will commence shortly and is expected to be completed by the middle of the next year. The project has been welcomed by residents and animal welfare advocates who have long felt the need for such an infrastructure.
V Santhanam, a senior activist and resident of Chromepet, called the facility long overdue. He pointed out that the neighboring Greater Chennai Corporation already operates three such pet crematoriums, setting a precedent. "This new facility in Tambaram will be a great relief and benefit the numerous pet-owning households in our expanding urban zone," Santhanam remarked.
Aligning with Urban Pet Ownership Trends
This development reflects a broader recognition of the changing dynamics in Indian cities, where pet ownership is on the rise. The initiative by the Tambaram Corporation not only addresses an immediate civic and sanitation problem but also introduces a measure of compassion and respect in handling animal deaths. By providing a sanctioned space for cremation, the corporation aims to curb the indiscriminate dumping that poses risks to community health and the local environment.
