Kolkata's Siriti Crematorium Undergoes Major Modernization and Beautification
In a significant development for Kolkata's civic infrastructure, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee virtually inaugurated the modernized and revamped Siriti crematorium on Tuesday. The extensive augmentation work, which commenced in 2022, has transformed the facility to better serve residents across large parts of Tollygunge, Behala, and adjacent neighbourhoods. This initiative reflects the Kolkata Municipal Corporation's commitment to enhancing public amenities with a focus on both functionality and aesthetics.
Enhanced Cremation Facilities and Traditional Options
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation has substantially upgraded the cremation capabilities at Siriti. Two new electrical furnaces have been added, bringing the total number of furnaces to four, thereby increasing efficiency and capacity. In a move to respect diverse cultural practices, the civic body will also provide a wooden pyre for citizens who prefer to follow traditional cremation norms. Tarak Singh, the member of the mayor-in-council who initially conceived the beautification and augmentation plan, emphasized that this dual approach ensures the facility caters to modern needs while honoring age-old customs.
Comprehensive Beautification and Infrastructure Upgrades
The modernization project spans an impressive 14 cottahs of land, which was reclaimed after relocating some families from adjacent areas. This entire space is now dedicated to extending crematoria services and implementing beautification measures. Key enhancements include:
- A double-storeyed, air-conditioned rest room for the kin of the deceased, offering comfort during difficult times.
- A dedicated car parking space within the crematoria complex to improve accessibility and convenience.
- A beautifully landscaped park adjacent to the crematorium, which has been integrated into the new complex to add utility and serenity to the environment.
- A newly dug pond where families can perform religious rituals post-cremation, addressing spiritual needs comprehensively.
Strategic Planning and Leadership Involvement
The project's execution was marked by meticulous planning and high-level oversight. Mayor Firhad Hakim played a pivotal role by frequently visiting the site during the augmentation work and giving the final approval for the modernization proposal a couple of years ago. To ensure a structured approach, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation engaged a consultancy firm to prepare a detailed project report, guiding the transformation of Siriti crematorium. According to a KMC official, the revamped facility is modeled after Keoratolla crematorium, one of the city's most renowned crematoria, setting a high standard for quality and service.
Historical Context and Future Implications
The initiative to rebuild Siriti crematorium gained momentum following the death of acclaimed filmmaker Rituparno Ghosh in 2013, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's encouragement spurring the civic body into action. This modernization not only addresses immediate infrastructural gaps but also sets a precedent for future upgrades in Kolkata's public facilities. By combining enhanced cremation services with thoughtful amenities like the park and pond, the project aims to provide a dignified and supportive environment for grieving families, thereby improving the overall civic experience in the city.
