Mumbai to Create Designated Spaces for Pet and Animal Burials

Mumbai: For the first time in Maharashtra, the state’s urban development department has instructed municipal corporations to set aside dedicated spaces near solid waste management facilities for the burial of pets and domestic animals.

The decision aims to address long-standing concerns over the improper disposal of animal remains, which are often found in water bodies, open grounds, and along city roads, creating potential health hazards.

According to the directive, these burial grounds must be secured with protective walls and maintained to prevent the spread of foul odours or disease. The intention is to create a safer, more sanitary method for managing animal remains within city limits.

Municipal corporations have also been permitted to charge a nominal fee for providing access to these facilities, offering a structured alternative to ad-hoc disposal practices. Officials have been tasked with ensuring strict compliance across all jurisdictions to maintain public hygiene and environmental standards.

The move has been welcomed by several animal welfare groups, who have long advocated for dignified, environmentally responsible options for pet burials. However, they have also stressed the need for proper monitoring to ensure that the burial sites are maintained with sensitivity and do not become neglected over time.