Patna: The Patna Municipal Corporation has announced the introduction of an online booking system for the new crematorium at Bans Ghat, in a move aimed at easing the strain on families during bereavement. Officials said the facility is designed to reduce long waiting times and overcrowding, which often add to the distress of those performing last rites.
The initiative is being rolled out under the Patna Smart City project, with authorities seeking to use technology to bring greater transparency and order to the process. Residents will be able to book a cremation slot from home through a WhatsApp chatbot, a round-the-clock helpline and a dedicated online portal.
Under the new system, users can send a message to the WhatsApp chatbot number 9264447449 to reserve a time slot. While the chatbot already offers several civic services, the crematorium booking feature is expected to be added shortly. Civic officials say this will help prevent sudden surges in crowds and minimise confusion at the ghat.
A 24-hour helpline will also be available to guide families through the process. In cases where additional assistance is required, a helpdesk team will be stationed at the crematorium premises to support registration and documentation, ensuring that grieving relatives do not face bureaucratic hurdles.
The upcoming portal will allow users to log in using a mobile number and one-time password, fill in the deceased’s details and choose between electric cremation, a wood-fired cremation oven or a traditional pyre. After booking, a confirmation message will be sent via SMS.
Authorities said that once the cremation is completed, both the death certificate and burning certificate will be issued online, simplifying paperwork and safeguarding documents. The portal is in its final stages of development and is expected to be formally launched for public use soon.
