Panvel,
India : In a landmark decision aimed at
enhancing animal welfare, the Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) has officially
approved the establishment of a dedicated animal crematorium in Kharghar. This
initiative addresses the long-standing issue of improper disposal of animal
remains, particularly of stray animals, and marks a significant step toward a
humane and sustainable solution.
The project, which has been in discussion for
several years, gained strong momentum following the persistent advocacy of
noted animal activist and Honorary Animal Welfare Representative (HAWR) Utpal
Khot. Khot has been tirelessly campaigning for an animal crematorium in Raigad
district for the past five years. Recognizing the urgency of the matter, PMC’s
Animal Husbandry Department has now allocated a 402.88 square meter plot in
Sector 14, Kharghar for the facility.
The crematorium will be equipped with two
gas-based cremation units—one with a 50-100 kg capacity for small animals and
another with a 500 kg capacity for larger animals. The project received formal
approval under Resolution No. 1009 during the General Body Meeting on September
6, 2024, and technical planning is currently underway to ensure timely
implementation.
Strong
Political Support
Panvel Municipal Commissioner Mangesh Sharmila
Pandurang Chitale has assured full commitment from PMC to expedite the project.
Dr. Gite from the Animal Husbandry Department will oversee the crematorium’s
implementation and operations, ensuring it meets all necessary standards.
The initiative has also received active
support from Kharghar Corporator Pravin Patil, working under the guidance of
MLA Prashant Thakur, both of whom have consistently backed Utpal Khot’s animal
welfare efforts in Raigad district. Additionally, MLC Niranjan Davkhare, who
oversees Sindhudurg, Ratnagiri, Raigad, Thane, and Palghar districts, has
pledged his support and expressed a vision of establishing animal crematoriums
in all five districts.
Expressing gratitude for this collaborative
effort, Utpal Khot acknowledged the contributions of several animal feeders and
activists from Panvel Taluka, including Archana Kulkarni, Dr. Manisha Matkar,
Seema, Nitin, Sanavi, Chaarvi, and others.
A Call
for Nationwide Implementation
Commenting on the approval of the crematorium,
Utpal Khot emphasized the urgent need for similar facilities across India. He
highlighted how the lack of proper cremation options poses significant
environmental and health hazards, including groundwater contamination and
hygiene concerns. According to Khot, every district in the country should
prioritize such projects to ensure that no animal—whether a stray or a pet—goes
without a dignified farewell.
Khot, who is recognized as one of India’s top
social media strategists and crisis management specialists, is a prominent
voice in animal activism. His advocacy extends beyond Raigad, as he frequently
writes and speaks on animal welfare issues, urging municipal bodies
nationwide to take similar initiatives.
Panvel
Sets An Example for Animal Welfare in India
With the approval of this crematorium, Panvel
is set to become a model district for other regions across India, showcasing a
more compassionate and sustainable approach to animal welfare. This milestone
reinforces the growing recognition of animal rights and the importance of
structured facilities for their dignified final rites.
As implementation progresses, this project is
expected to inspire many more cities and districts to adopt similar measures,
marking a significant shift in how animal remains are managed across the
country.