Crematoriums provide an important place for families to perform final rites and pay respects to their loved ones. Recognising its importance, the recent Tsirang Dzongkhag Tshogdu discussed the need to improve the district’s crematorium.
The crematorium is equipped with all the facilities needed for a sacred place like this. Constructed in 2009, the area has become too small for the growing demand.
It can accommodate only two dead bodies at a time. A new cremation platform has to be placed outside the crematorium.
The facility also lacks a designated space for visitors and vehicles. This causes inconvenience, particularly during large gatherings.
Narrow road leading up to the crematorium poses another risk when traffic increases.
Since the crematorium also serves the people of Dagana, the need has become urgent.
Sergithang Gup Phub Dorji said, “Currently, the area is suitable for only one to two dead bodies. However, if the crematorium receives more than 20 bodies at a time in the future, like Thimphu and Punakha, that would be a problem. Is there any plan to extend the crematorium area and widen the road?”
“There is a risk when we don’t have a separate place for visitors and cars. Visitors are usually in a hurry when they come to the crematorium. It would be better if the crematorium had a separate place for visitors and a parking space,” said Phurba Dorji, the community service lam, Tsirang Namgyel Choeling Dratshang.
But for now, there is no plan. The area was improved with blacktopping, religious items and appointed a security guard.
District Culture Officer Tashi Dawa said, “As proposed by the gup, constructing walls would help expand the crematorium, but this would require a huge budget. As for the approach road, we had considered widening it, but both sides of the road are private land. As a result, we have not been able to plan the road widening for now.”
The district culture officer said they will consider further improvements if demand increases.
The crematorium receives about four to five bodies on average each month. With the facility serving two districts, expanding it could become crucial sooner or later.
Pema Tshewang, Tsirang
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
