Mumbai: Municipal body in a fix as ashes of Covid-19 victims still uncollected

This picture has been used for representational purpose

The ashes of Covid-19 victims are still lying uncollected at the crematory grounds of the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation. At the peak of Covid-19, many family members were not allowed to perform the final rites of their loves ones. However, several families haven't collected the ashes yet. The municipal body will now be putting out an advertisement in the newspaper, giving families 15 days time to do the needful.

Speaking with mid-day, Deputy Commissioner Ajit Muthe said, "If they do not collect it within 15 days, we will immerse the ashes in Nashik." Incidentally, Deputy Mayor Hasmukh Gehlot has written to the VVMC commissioner to conduct the last rites at their own expenses.

A few NGOs, like Jaldhara, have also come forward to help the municipal body. Bharat Mishra, president of Jaldhara, said, "It's shocking that families haven't yet collected the asthi of their deceased relatives. We have written to the municipal corporation, requesting for permission to immerse the ashes in Godavari river, Nashik. We will also do the hawan-shantipeeth with their names."