S. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary, Department of Municipal Administration and Urban Development, directed the municipal commissioners to conduct personal inspections and submit compliance reports.
The Andhra Pradesh government has initiated efforts to modernize burial grounds and cremation grounds in all urban local bodies (ULBs) as directed by the Andhra Pradesh High Court in a public interest litigation petition. A total of 1,803 such facilities have been identified in the state, highlighting the scale of the initiative.
Principal Secretary Municipal Administration and Urban Development, S. Suresh Kumar, on Friday directed officials to ensure minimum service standards within 15 days, warning that any lapses would be taken seriously.
He ordered the provision of functional toilets, continuous water supply and adequate lighting at all locations, which he described as “non-negotiable minimum services”. The city commissioners were asked to carry out personal inspections and submit performance reports within a specified period.
Mr. Suresh Kumar noted that the maintenance of burial grounds and cremation grounds was mandated under the Municipal Acts and the 12th Schedule of the Constitution.
The government also called for a detailed assessment of gaps and proposals to expand infrastructure, including compound walls and sanitation systems, while strengthening local management committees.
A state-wide committee, headed by the Chief Secretary, was constituted to review the facility and recommend action as directed by the Supreme Court.
The government has reiterated that maintaining such grounds is a legal responsibility and has ensured strict monitoring of compliance.
Published – 20 March 2026 18:13 IST
