HDMC gets daily complaints of dead animals dumped, highlighting urgent need for cremation units to ensure dignity.
Hubballi
The Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation’s (HDMC) ambitious plan to establish pet cremation units in the twin cities has run into delays, raising public concern. Despite a May 2025 deadline, the contractor has failed to complete the installation of essential equipment, leaving the project stalled.
HDMC’s control room reportedly receives three to four complaints daily about dead animals found dumped on roadsides, a problem compounded by the absence of proper cremation or burial facilities. Officials say the new units are meant to address sanitation concerns and provide a dignified farewell to pets and stray animals.
At an estimated cost of ₹1 crore, two cremation units—one at Dharwad’s dumpyard and another on Karwar Road in Hubballi—were approved. These will be the first such facilities in North Karnataka and only the second in the state after Bengaluru. “The Hubballi unit is almost ready, but installation of gas lines and other critical components is pending. Rain and the contractor’s absence have delayed the project,” said HDMC Superintendent Engineer R. Vijay Kumar.
According to sources, the contractor has been absconding for several days, further slowing progress. However, officials maintain that once operational, the units will cremate all animals, including pets and strays.
HDMC Commissioner Rudresh Gali assured that pending works will be completed soon and the facilities will be opened without further delay. Meanwhile, residents have urged swift action. “Some people dump dead pets on roadsides while others bury them in their compounds. The cremation units should be opened quickly to provide a dignified solution,” said Nagaraj Nadakarni of Moraraji Nagar.
