KOZHIKODE: Ulliyeri is all set to get first-of-its-kind garden-cum-crematorium soon. The Rs 3.20-crore project is being implemented using funds from the World Bank, Kerala local Government Service Delivery Project (KLGSDP) and MLA fund.
The project comprises a state-of-the-art crematorium surrounded by garden which would include a lotus pond, open air theatre, reading corners and walls dotted with paintings and quotes.
The project is coming up in the 2.60-acre land at Narath Karakkat Kunnu and residents of the Balusserry Assembly constituency would be able to use the crematorium. "Not a single tree would be cut to set up the facility. Two dead bodies could be cremated simultaneously using LPG.
The smoke from burning would be emitted to a water tank to avoid pollution," explained Balusserry MLA Purushan Kadalundi. An 18-lakh liter water harvesting tank would be set up for the purpose. Already Rs 50 lakh has been spent for the construction of the road. As per the approved design, the crematorium and the garden would be separated by a wall.
However, dead bodies have to be taken to the burning furnace through the garden. "Facilities to conduct prayers, hall to place the body for final homage, hall for condolence meeting will also be set up. If any relatives want to immerse the ashes in prominent rivers anywhere in the country, that arrangement could
also be made," said an official at Ulliyeri gram panchayat.
A body comprising panchayt presidents, cultural figures and senior citizens will run the crematorium. According to gram panchayat council decision, there would be a nominal fee for cremation.s
