Balussery model development

Rains are pouring unabated in Kerala. Shocking deaths are also filling the list in these downpours which brings open the negligence and the lack of effort from the government to build a bulwark to resist such natural calamities. Among the many such untoward incidents, one cremation ached many hearts. A family had to arrange a temporary pyre near a bridge for cremation since their house got inundated in the floods. The emotions the family members have had to traverse during these times are beyond any gauge limits. This grotesque treatment often reaches people settling in low-lying areas including Kuttanad. These also highlight the plight faced by people who are bereft of any property lest any six feet of land. In some homes in these villages, people would resort to demolishing their kitchen portion to cremate their dead kin. Such is the fate endured by these vulnerable families. This newspaper in several instances has shed light on the urgent need for public crematoriums in every panchayat. A lot of ink was spilt on op-eds asking the government to expedite the process. The government escaped the queries with vague promises that still remain stagnant and untouched.

It seldom worries Muslim-Christian communities about the funeral process since they have a special place allotted for funeral purposes in Churches and Mosques. However, things are not equal for the poor Hindu families settled near the rural belt, who are often at the receiving end of denial. Any death in the family during adverse conditions means they have to find an alternate place for cremation with time running out. The idea of a civilized and culture-adhering cremation centre is yet to cross the minds of the ruling elites. The government always makes it a habit to snub these requests as personal needs that don't warrant attention.

Years back, when Shantikavadam was started as part of the Thycaud public crematorium, people across the state watched the developments in awe. With an electric furnace, amenities for accommodating large people, and TV screens to watch the proceedings, Shantikavadam shattered the conventionality followed in the process. There was chagrin from people during the earlier stage as the crematorium in Thycaud was more leaning toward modern ways than adhering to the century-old rituals. However, now, people are thronging the space booking slots every day for conducting cremation as per Hindu rituals.

The topic 'crematorium' is discussed now for a reason. In Balussery Ulliyeri, a new crematorium has started work. The eco-friendly building covers an area of two acres. The cremation hall is named ‘Smritivanam’ as it is placed atop a hill in Karakkat. Apart from the crematorium, the space provides a children's park and amphitheatre and a reading space for people. In the crematorium, many people can be accommodated at a time.

It was Balussery former MLA Purushan Kadalundy who started efforts to create a crematorium to be on par in standards with Shantikavadam in the capital. Present MLA Sachin Dev took reins of the project from Purushan and ensured it gets completed at the earliest. And now, with the space open to working, it is some solace for the people of Balussery.