A unique modern funeral complex has been inaugurated by Telangana Industry Minister KT Rama Rao at Fathullaguda near Uppal in Hyderabad on Tuesday. Built by the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA), the complex provides separate facilities for the last rites for Hindus, Muslims and Christians.

The aesthetically built complex designed to promote communal harmony in society has been aptly named Mukti Ghat. The facility also ensures zero pollution.

Built at a cost of Rs 16.25 crore, the complex has been built on a plot measuring about 6.5 acres which was once used for dumping construction and demolition debris.

Around two acres of the available land has been dedicated to build a Muslim burial ground, another two for a Christian cemetery while the crematorium and other facilities for Hindu last rites were constructed over 2.5 acres of land.

The modern funeral complex comes with mortuaries to allow the bodies to be preserved till their loved ones are able to reach the city to catch the last glimpse of the deceased person. The authorities have also thoughtfully set up cameras to help the kin to watch live streaming of the last rites of their loved ones in case they are unable to reach due to financial difficulties or problems with visa.

The complex also boasts of greenery with aesthetic landscaping offering a serenity that is usually absent at the traditional crematoriums or funeral homes. Electrical furnaces have been set up run on solar power to address the issue of environmental pollution along with a sewerage treatment plant.

Water used for bathing or in washrooms will be recycled to water the plants. There is also a complete ban on any noise or playing of drums or other instruments keeping in mind the solemnity of the place.

There are separate prayer halls, aesthetically pleasing open spaces for congregation and halls to perform the rites which take place after the tenth day. The Muslim and Christian burial places have been constructed with three levels with each accommodating about 550 bodies. A series of arches act as screens to separate the burial space from the main block. Appropriate art work adds colour to the otherwise stark yet serene space.