Koregaon Park, 11th August 2023: In response to mounting complaints and concerns, the residents of Koregaon Park, accompanied by Corporator Mangala Mantri and representatives from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), conducted an on-site inspection of the Bhairoba Crematorium in Koregaon Park. The inspection aimed to address various issues, including inadequate maintenance, cleanliness concerns, and infrastructural deficiencies within the crematorium premises.
During the inspection, residents and PMC officials observed a range of issues plaguing the crematorium, such as broken window panes, damaged tiles, deteriorating sheds, exposed electrical wires and fixtures, and the presence of approximately 6-8 stray dogs on the premises. Inadequate restroom facilities, unclean toilets, and insufficient lighting arrangements further exacerbated the challenges. The residents emphasized the urgency of rectifying these issues to restore the dignity of the crematorium.
Dhairyashil Vandekar, President of the Vithalrao Vandekar Foundation and a resident of Koregaon Park, emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful environment in such spaces, keeping in mind the sentiments of the community. Vandekar expressed concern that the poor state of the crematorium disrespects the deceased and their grieving families, while the presence of stray dogs adds to the difficulties faced by visitors and staff.
Vandekar advocated for a comprehensive masterplan formulated by the PMC to revamp the Bhairoba Pumping Crematorium. He suggested taking inspiration from the well-maintained Vaikunth crematorium in the city, with a focus on planting trees and creating an atmosphere that honors the departed and offers solace to visitors.
Samir Roopani, another resident, stressed the importance of maintaining cleanliness, especially in restroom facilities. Roopani highlighted the emotional significance of the crematorium and called for its impeccable upkeep.
GV Krishna, yet another resident, emphasized the need for consistent supervision and regular maintenance to ensure the crematorium remains in optimal condition.
Promptly addressing the concerns raised by the residents, Corporator Mangala Mantri and social worker Nilesh Mantri organized the on-site visit. They assured residents of their commitment to addressing the issues and pledged to oversee the implementation of proposed actions within the next two weeks.
Following discussions with the residents, a series of immediate actions were identified, including electrical repairs, painting, road repairs, window pane replacements, underground cabling for high-tension electrical lines, enclosing exposed wires and boxes, waste and debris removal, installation of additional taps, tree planting, water line improvements for toilets, panhali pipe work, and civil works. PMC officials assured residents that these tasks would be completed within the next 15 days.
Prominent residents present during the inspection included Dhairyashil Vandekar, Samir Rupani, GV Krishna, Mauli Darwadkar, Aaba Modak, Darode, and others. PMC officials from the main department and ward office, including Khare, Sonali Jadhav, Ashok Zuluk, Laxmi Gaware, Mrs. Shinde, Kalshetty, and others, were also in attendance.
Dhairyashil Vandekar extended gratitude on behalf of the residents to Corporator Mangala Mantri, Nilesh Mantri, and PMC officials for their collaborative approach in addressing concerns and swiftly proposing action plans.
