Patiala: In a first for Punjab, an air pollution control device (APCD) has been installed at a crematorium in Patiala to curb emissions from traditional pyres, marking a new front in the state’s clean air push.Set up at Badungar crematorium under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), the pilot project will be replicated in other non-attainment cities before being scaled up across Punjab, officials said.Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) chairperson Reena Gupta said the initiative balances environmental concerns with cultural practices. “Traditional cremation is integral to our social fabric. This shows technology can reduce emissions without disrupting customs,” she said.Officials said the APCD is designed to cut particulate emissions (PM10 and PM2.5), a key but often overlooked source of urban air pollution. Deputy commissioner Varjeet Walia termed it a “replicable model” for measurable pollution reduction.PPCB member secretary Dr Lavneet Dubey said crematoria, though individually minor contributors, cumulatively impact air quality. The board is conducting pre- and post-installation studies to assess effectiveness before wider rollout.Despite electric and gas alternatives, wood-based cremation remains prevalent due to religious and cultural reasons, prompting authorities to adopt a solution that works alongside existing practices.
