Ranchi: The Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) would set up a committee to regulate prices of firewood and other funeral essentials at cremation grounds under its jurisdiction to curb overcharging by vendors.The decision was taken during a review meeting chaired by municipal commissioner Sushant Gaurav to assess the condition of 16 cremation and funeral sites and streamline their functioning.“Cremation grounds and funeral sites are vital public spaces serving all sections of society. The corporation’s objective is to provide a dignified and improved system for citizens by ensuring cleanliness, security, and the availability of all essential basic amenities at these locations,” Gaurav said.Under state norms, civic bodies can license vendors selling fuel and funeral materials at cremation sites and fix their rates. Sale of such items without a license within a 300-yard radius of any funeral ground is prohibited and can invite legal action. Vendors charging more than the prescribed rates will face immediate cancellation of their licenses, officials said.The proposed panel would also oversee selection of agencies to manage each cremation ground. All managing entities would have to register with the RMC and follow civic guidelines, while the corporation would retain overall regulatory control.Gaurav directed officials to begin special two-shift daily sanitation drives at all sites to clear accumulated waste. The engineering wing was asked to carry out site-specific civil repairs, while the horticulture department will cut grass and clean surrounding green spaces. Zonal teams were instructed to install directional signboards at key junctions to improve access.Officials also reviewed mandatory registration and operational compliance under sections 70, 369 to 375, and 377 of the Jharkhand Municipal Act, 2011, along with directives from the state urban development and housing department.
