Chandigarh Revolutionizes Animal Waste Management with State-of-the-Art Carcass Incinerator

In a monumental stride towards enhanced public health and environmental sustainability, Chandigarh has proudly inaugurated its first-ever animal carcass incinerator. This cutting-edge facility, located in Industrial Area, Phase 1, marks a significant departure from outdated disposal methods, promising a cleaner, healthier, and more humane approach to managing deceased animals.

The project, meticulously executed at a cost of Rs 2.15 crore and funded under the Central government's Swachh Bharat Mission, addresses a long-standing challenge for the Union Territory.

Previously, animal carcasses were unceremoniously dumped in landfills, notably at Dadu Majra, leading to severe environmental pollution, foul odors, and significant health hazards for nearby residents and waste management personnel. This new incinerator provides a scientific, efficient, and environmentally sound alternative, ensuring the dignified disposal of animal remains.

Equipped with a robust capacity, the incinerator can process up to 200 kg of carcasses per hour.

This translates to the ability to handle approximately 25-30 small animals or 2-3 large animals daily, effectively catering to the needs of both stray and domestic animals including dogs, cats, cows, and other livestock. The facility boasts advanced technology designed to burn carcasses completely, reducing them to sterile ash, thereby eliminating the risks of disease transmission and ground or water contamination associated with traditional burial or landfill disposal.

The inauguration ceremony, presided over by UT adviser Dharam Pal, underscored the administration's commitment to modernizing urban infrastructure and promoting ecological responsibility.

Operated and maintained by the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation, the incinerator is expected to dramatically improve sanitary conditions across the city and prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases. The journey to establish this facility began in 2021, facing initial delays primarily due to the intricate process of importing and installing specialized equipment, but its successful completion is a testament to persistent efforts.

This pioneering initiative is more than just a waste management solution; it's a statement about Chandigarh's progressive vision.

By embracing this technology, the city is not only safeguarding public health and preserving its pristine environment but also setting a precedent for other urban centers to adopt sustainable and compassionate practices in animal waste disposal. It signifies a future where every aspect of urban living, including the often-overlooked challenge of animal carcass disposal, is managed with dignity and ecological foresight.