Itanagar, Feb 27: Urban Affairs Minister Balo Raja, accompanied by local MLA-cum-Advisor to the Minister (Urban Affairs) Techi Kaso, IMC Mayor Likha Nari Tadar, and ICR Deputy Commissioner Toko Babu, on Friday inspected the burial ground at Chimpu to assess its current condition and determine measures to make it fully functional.
During the inspection, the team observed that the burial ground requires immediate protection through the construction of a proper boundary wall to prevent any possible encroachment. The electric cremation unit at the site was also examined, and it was found to require modifications for effective utilization.
It was further noted that burials and cremations are being conducted without proper record maintenance due to inadequate oversight by designated authorities. As the burial ground remains open at all times without watch and ward arrangements, there is a risk of unauthorized burials or cremations without prior intimation to the IMC or necessary permission from the Corporation.
Interacting with officials during the visit, the Minister informed that the estimate for constructing the boundary wall has already been endorsed to the Planning Department for early consideration. He assured that he would pursue the matter with the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister for urgent sanction.
The team also emphasized the need for a proper gate along with the boundary wall to prevent illegal burials, cremations, or encroachments.
The Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) has been directed to immediately maintain proper records of all burials and cremations by deploying adequate manpower at the site. The Corporation will also issue necessary guidelines and circulate them through local media and social media platforms for compliance by all concerned.
Later in the day, the team visited the nearby abattoir plant. The IMC has been instructed to take prompt steps to operationalize the plant by assessing the required infrastructure and submitting the proposal to the government for early approval. The team also recommended construction of a boundary wall around the abattoir to safeguard the premises against encroachment.