Guwahati's Nabagraha cremation ground gets Rs 13.64 crore makeover

The Assam government is nearing completion of a Rs 13.64 crore redevelopment of the Nabagraha cremation ground in Guwahati, which the government describes as a historic site.

The Chief Minister's Office shared details of the project on social media on Tuesday, The Sentinel reported. According to the CMO, Phases I, II and III of the work are complete, and Phase IV is about 95 per cent done.

What is being built

The upgraded facility has seven covered funeral pyres, so last rites can be performed in rain, along with a modern gas crematorium and a 40-kg eco-friendly incinerator. Mortuary cabinets have also been installed.

The work includes renovation of shrines on the premises, paved pathways, a fountain, floodlights and illuminated walkways. Round-the-clock CCTV surveillance has been added to improve security and management.

The plan also provides for an office of the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) and staff quarters at the site, which should allow the civic body to manage the ground directly.

Why it matters

Nabagraha is among the main cremation grounds serving Guwahati, and the upgrade is meant to make it better equipped for the number of families who use it.

A gas crematorium uses less wood and produces less smoke than open pyres, which matters in a growing city where air quality is a rising concern. Covered pyres and better lighting should also make the site easier to use in bad weather and after dark.

The CMO said the aim was to turn the historic ground into a peaceful, modern and well-equipped public space where people can perform the last rites of their loved ones with dignity.

What is still pending

The government has not yet announced a date for the formal opening of the completed facility or said how the gas crematorium will be priced or booked. Details on who will operate and maintain the new systems are also awaited.

NEInsider will update this story when the facility is formally opened.