MCD Approves Free Eco-Friendly Cremation and Rs 15.3 Crore for Gaushalas
In a significant move blending environmental reform with welfare initiatives, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) on Monday approved free cremation services at CNG and electric facilities, sanctioned Rs 15.3 crore for feeding impounded cattle housed in four gaushalas, and initiated discussions on transitioning to a paperless governance system. These decisions were made during MCD's monthly house meeting, where several key proposals were passed to address civic and ecological concerns in the capital.
Financial Support for Gaushalas
The civic authority granted administrative sanction to clear pending dues and upcoming feeding charges for four gaushalas for the financial year 2025-26. According to available data, the pending liability for feeding charges from April to October 2025 amounts to approximately Rs 8.8 crore, while the estimated expenditure for November 2025 to March 2026 is around Rs 6.5 crore. The feeding charge is calculated at Rs 20 per cattle head per day, reflecting MCD's commitment to animal welfare.
Breakdown of Gaushala Liabilities:
- Shri Krishan Gaushala (Surbhi), Sultanpur Dabas: Highest combined liability at Rs 6.3 crore.
- Dabar Hare Krishna Gaushala/Gausadan: Liability of Rs 3.6 crore.
- Gopal Gosadan, Harewali: Liability of Rs 2.9 crore.
- Manav Gaushadan, Rewla Khanpur: Liability of Rs 2.3 crore.
Free Cremation to Curb Pollution
In an effort to reduce smoke emissions and curb air pollution, MCD approved a proposal to provide free cremation at CNG and electric crematoriums under its jurisdiction. Currently, wood-based cremation costs around Rs 700 per quintal of wood, with an average of three to four quintals used per body, pushing the total cost to approximately Rs 2,100 to Rs 2,800. In comparison, CNG cremation costs about Rs 1,500, while electric cremation costs approximately Rs 500, making them more economical and environmentally sustainable options.
Delhi has two electric crematoriums and eight CNG ones, but these facilities remain underutilized as many families continue to follow traditional wood-based cremation practices. This move aims to encourage adoption of cleaner alternatives, aligning with broader environmental goals for the city.
Debate on Governance and Paperless Transition
The house meeting also saw lively debates on governance issues. Leader of the Opposition and AAP leader Ankush Narang raised concerns about the reported increase in the financial approval limit of the MCD commissioner from Rs 5 crore to Rs 50 crore, arguing that this could reduce the powers of the house and elected councillors, potentially centralizing decision-making.
Additionally, discussions on shifting to a paperless system gained traction. Senior councillor Ritu Goel supported the move, emphasizing that in line with the Prime Minister's push for digital governance, MCD should reduce paper usage to help protect the environment and enhance efficiency. However, Indraprastha Vikas Party leader Mukesh Goyal expressed caution, stating that while he is not opposed to going paperless, physical copies of agendas should continue to be provided for councillors who are not fully comfortable with digital platforms, ensuring inclusivity in the transition process.
These initiatives underscore MCD's multifaceted approach to addressing urban challenges, from pollution control and animal welfare to modernizing administrative practices, all aimed at improving the quality of life for Delhi's residents while promoting sustainable development.
