City adds two new cremators at Maitland Crematorium
11 February 2016
The City of Cape Town has added two new cremators to the existing six at Maitland Crematorium due to an increasing demand for cremation.
‘Cities across the world are struggling to find land to accommodate in-ground burials. This is a particular challenge in developing cities as any land which is able to accommodate burials is also land which could be used for housing, given that good quality soil and a lower water table are needed for both of these uses,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Special Projects, Alderman Belinda Walker.
Cremation promoted as an alternative to burial
The City is ensuring that cremation is an affordable option and has seen the number of cremations increase in recent years. Currently approximately 40% of people are cremated annually, with Cape Town having the highest proportion of cremations of any metropolitan city in the country.
‘We are striving to provide dignified means of mourning and remembering loved ones that are alternatives to in-ground burials. Spaces have been made available in the Maitland Cemetery for the burial of ashes, together with a wall featuring plaques with the names of lost loved ones. The sponsoring of memorial trees and benches in the city’s parks is another means by which people can remember loved ones. We don’t want burial to be viewed as the only or the obvious choice once a loved one has passed,’ said Alderman Walker.
The City encourages people to discuss their preferences with their family, because often a person dies unexpectedly without having told anyone that they prefer to be cremated and, when in doubt, the family normally chooses burial.
Religious preferences respected
‘We are aware that for many residents the cultural or religious preference is for burial, and as a caring city we will always endeavour to ensure that residents can bury and mourn their loved ones according to their cultural and religious beliefs,’ said Alderman Walker.
There is sufficient burial capacity within the City’s cemeteries for the next 10 years and even beyond in the case of some cemeteries.
‘Over the coming years, however, residents may find that there isn’t burial capacity in their preferred cemetery, but they will be able to use an alternative cemetery within the city. There is no need for residents to be concerned as the City is actively looking at various alternative interment options and will continue to look for appropriate land for new cemeteries,’ said Alderman Walker.
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