New gas-fired furnace offers greener option for funeral rites
The inauguration of a gas-fired cremation furnace at Parvati Ghat, Jamshedpur, introduces a more environmentally friendly option for funeral services, costing Rs 3,500 per cremation and promising to significantly reduce air pollution.
JAMSHEDPUR – In a significant move towards promoting eco-friendly cremation practices, Parvati Ghat in Jamshedpur has unveiled a gas-fired furnace, marking a new era in the city’s approach to funeral rites.
Prem Sehgal, Navin Parikh, Rajendra Amin, and DP Singh played pivotal roles in the early stages of development at Parvati Ghat, which has seen various improvements since its establishment in 1925.
The ghat, operational since 1925, underwent notable enhancements over the years, including the introduction of a tin shed for cremations in 1932.
Parvati Ghat’s commitment to modernization and environmental conservation was further evidenced by the addition of its first electric furnace in 1999, followed by a second one in 2015, catering to the annual cremation of approximately 4,000 bodies.
The newly inaugurated gas-powered facility, designed to accommodate the cremation of bodies using six 50 kg LPG cylinders for fuel, ensures a swift process, turning bodies to ashes in about an hour.
This facility is part of a broader initiative to offer diverse cremation options at Parvati Ghat, which includes two electric furnaces and traditional wood-based cremations, highlighting the ghat’s adaptive and inclusive approach to funeral services.
Dipendra Bhatt, General Secretary of the Parvati Ghat Managing Committee, emphasized the gas furnace’s role in reducing air pollution, describing it as "an eco-friendly unit that will significantly lower emissions compared to traditional cremation methods."
"Starting tomorrow, the gas-fired facility will offer an eco-conscious choice for families, reflecting our commitment to sustainability," stated Bhatt, underlining the readiness of the facility to serve the community.
The project, costing about Rs 70 lakh, was realized with contributions from members and supporters, showcasing the community’s support for eco-friendly initiatives.
"By introducing a gas-fired option, we’re providing an eco-friendly alternative that complements our existing electric and wood-based cremation methods," remarked another member from the managing committee, highlighting the ghat’s comprehensive approach to funeral services.
