In a first-of-its-kind initiative in Gujarat, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has launched a CNG-based dog crematorium to provide a dignified and scientific last rite for pet dogs. Officials say it is also the first municipal corporation-run pet dog crematorium in an urban area in the country.
The facility has been set up by the civic body’s Cattle Nuisance Control Department (CNCD) at the ABC Centre in Behrampura, within the Suez pumping station campus, at a cost of ₹30 lakh. The initiative is aligned with the Government of India’s Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, and the National Action Plan for Rabies Elimination (NAPRE) 2030, under which AMC is already conducting vaccination, sterilisation, pet registration, and other animal welfare measures.
Officials said the crematorium ensures hygienic, scientific, and environmentally safe cremation while respecting the emotional bond between pets and their owners. The gas-fired facility can cremate up to three dogs at a time and operates at temperatures of 800–900 degrees Celsius, ensuring no smoke or odour is released. Cremating two dogs consumes around 14 units of natural gas, costing about ₹700 per dog.
The crematorium is designed to meet environmental norms and includes a 30-foot chimney and an automated trolley system that transfers the animal into the chamber without manual handling. A smaller organ cremator for biological waste disposal has already been operating at the centre for the past two years.
To provide a humane farewell, AMC has arranged seating for family members and installed CCTV cameras so owners can watch the cremation remotely if they wish. After the process, the ashes are placed in an urn, covered with a red cloth, and respectfully handed over to the owner.
Pet owners can avail the service by informing AMC through helpline number 155303 and submitting proof of pet registration. A dedicated vehicle, along with floral and ritual materials, is sent to transport the deceased pet. Services are also available for unregistered pets through online registration or donation-based arrangements. The civic body additionally provides death certificates, photographs or videos of the ceremony, and remembrance messages on death anniversaries.
Ahmedabad currently has more than 19,000 registered pet dogs, and AMC plans to set up two more dog crematoria in the future depending on demand.