Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, May 15: The cremation charges at the St Inez crematorium has been waived off by the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) for Covid victims who are not residents of the capital city.

Further, the civic body would not charge any amount for the hearse van to transport bodies within the jurisdiction of Panaji, but that an amount of Rs 500 would be charged to transport the corpse from Goa Medical College to the crematorium, mayour Rohit Monseratte said.

"Considering the current Covid crisis prevailing in the state, CCP has decided to waive the additional amount of Rs 1,000 which was charged for those bodies other than that of Panaji residents. The rates will be Rs 100," Monserrate said.

The mayor warned citizens about unscrupulous agents fleecing people for cremations. The hearse van is available for Panaji till 7 pm while cremation for Covid deaths will be permitted between 2 pm and 7 pm, residents were informed. "The CCP charges Rs 100 for issue of NOC and Rs 2,800 is charged towards wood cost, which is payable to the managing committee of the Hindu crematorium. Other than the above mentioned amount. No amount should be paid to anyone," the mayor said.

However, due to the health risk attached and the need for safety precautions, CCP workers will not help shift or handle any Covid bodies at the crematorium, the mayor said. For the cremation, relatives will have to carry proper documentation, particularly death slip issued by a doctor. Aadhar card or any other government ID card will also be required. Only ten persons will be permitted to attend the cremation. "If anyone demands any additional money other than mentioned above. I request you to please call and report the same to my OSD John Rodrigues," he said.