Delhi's Eco-Cremation Revolution: Cow Dung Cakes Replace Traditional Wood

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has proposed replacing 20% of funeral firewood with cow dung cakes to promote sustainable practices. This initiative, initially explored during the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to reduce wood dependence and manage dairy waste, although acceptance remains gradual due to cultural preferences.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) aims to revolutionize cremation practices by replacing 20% of the firewood used with cow dung cakes. The initiative, first tested during the COVID-19 pandemic, is part of a broader effort to embrace eco-friendly practices and reduce reliance on wood.

This innovative plan involves using uniform logs of cow dung and stubble to improve combustion efficiency. Although switching is not mandatory, MCD's advisory encourages cremation grounds to adopt cow dung cakes, receiving support from NGOs and private stakeholders.

This move seeks both environmental and logistical benefits, like managing cow dung waste from the city's dairy colonies, but cultural acceptance remains a challenge. The proposal highlights potential long-term benefits in reducing carbon emissions and pollution, despite current supply constraints.

(With inputs from agencies.)