Protests erupt at Payyambalam crematorium over firewood shortage 

The Kannur Corporation’s Payyambalam Shanti Crematorium witnessed protests on Monday (April 21, 2025) as families were made to wait for hours for the cremation of their relatives owing to a shortage of firewood.”

As the Corporation officials failed to provide timely support, some families had to arrange firewood and carry out the rites independently. Anger mounted as the staff allegedly delayed issuing receipts. “The officials were just sitting there doing nothing,” said Manoj, who had come to attend a funeral, expressing frustration over the lack of action by the civic body.

CPI(M) district secretary K.K. Ragesh, area secretary K.P. Sudhakaran, BJP State secretary K. Ranjith, and north district president K.K. Vinod Kumar visited the site following the protest.

The situation grew more tense when Corporation secretary Vinu C. Kunhappan arrived at the crematorium. He was met with criticism from those present, who pointed out the lack of preparation and failure to maintain proper arrangements for the deceased. The Corporation later arranged for firewood and completed the pending cremations.

Mr. Ragesh said the civic body had awarded the contract for providing firewood to the crematorium, however, the contract period had ended. Though a new contractor was found, the Corporation reportedly failed to sign an agreement. “The Corporation should have been more careful. Even the gasifier crematorium is not functioning, despite spending several crores,” he added.

Mr. Vinod said that there were facilities to perform cremations according to Hindu rituals. However, such facilities were no longer available. He added that the BJP would raise a strong protest against the Corporation.