Hills' first electric crematorium begins operations in Kalimpong

SNS, DARJEELING,  17 JULY 2021 : The first electric crematorium in the Hills finally started functioning in Kalimpong today. Officials said the move will prove to be of great help to the people, especially to family of patients who die of Covid-19.

While the operations started at Bhalukhop on the outskirts of Kalimpong town, the first cremation was also done there today.

"The crematorium was ready one year ago, but had not started due to technical issues. This will prove to be helpful to Covid victims, while it will also be cheaper for the general public. If one has to cremate a body in the traditional pyre, it would cost them anywhere around Rs 20,000, with wood only costing about 6,000. Moreover, such cremations are problematic during the rainy season," Kalimpong Municipality Chairman Ravi Pradhan said.

He said that as for now, keeping the pandemic in mind, the service at the electric crematorium would be free of cost for all.

"People will, however, have to fill up forms by paying Rs 2,000, which will be refunded after the death certificate is produced through the Soma Vyapi Scheme," he added.

The project was built at a cost of Rs 3 crore, out of which the structure cost around Rs 2.5 crore and the rest was the cost of taking electricity there.

A technician has been hired under an annual maintenance contract there, it is learnt.