Maharashtra Government Orders Dedicated Burial Grounds for Pets Across State

Mumbai, 27th April 2025: In a major relief for grieving pet owners, the Maharashtra government has directed all municipal bodies to set up dedicated burial sites for domestic animals. Until now, the absence of proper facilities forced many families to bury their beloved pets in dumping grounds or abandon them in water bodies, adding to their emotional anguish.

Under the new policy, all municipal corporations, councils, and nagar panchayats must identify land near solid waste management centers specifically for animal burials. These sites must be located away from human cremation grounds and equipped with sanitation and odour-control systems, as per the government’s guidelines. Pet owners will be required to pay a nominal fee for availing of the service.

“For many households, pets are part of the family. It is only right that their final journey should be handled with dignity,” said a senior official from the Urban Development Department (UDD). “We have mandated local bodies to ensure proper facilities, with compound walls and hygiene measures at these burial sites.”

The move comes after Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik raised concerns in the state legislature in 2023. Sarnaik pointed out that animal remains were often disposed of near human cremation grounds, creating religious and cultural sensitivities.

Speaking to reporters, Sarnaik welcomed the new policy. “The lack of a respectful burial option for animals was a long-pending issue. I am glad the government has taken a compassionate and practical step by creating designated spaces for pet burials,” he said.

The government finalized the framework for animal burial grounds earlier this year. Officials emphasized that the plan not only respects the emotional bond between humans and their pets but also addresses public health concerns related to improper disposal of animal remains.

Local bodies have been instructed to expedite the identification of burial plots and complete the setup within the coming months. Residents across the state can soon expect to have access to formal, sanitized resting places for their furry companions — a small but significant gesture to honour the deep bond between humans and animals.