Rakh Dhamiyal Graveyard: A Sustainable Solution to Burial Challenges

APP

Rawalpindi: The newly established Rakh Dhamiyal graveyard has emerged as a long-term solution to the critical issue of limited burial space for Rawalpindi’s residents.

Rafaqat, Town Officer at the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation (RMC), informed APP on Saturday that the expansive 1,000-kanal graveyard has been divided into three main sections.

“A total of 450 kanals has been allocated for the cantonment boards and city areas, while 100 kanals have been designated for the Christian community,” he said.

With Rawalpindi’s population growing rapidly, space for burials in the city’s 68 existing graveyards both large and small has run out, including those in the cantonment areas.

Rafaqat explained that RMC and the cantonment boards issue receipts (approval documents) for digging graves and burial, which, he assured, is a straightforward process.

A Model Cemetery

Residents have expressed their appreciation for the new cemetery. “This is a model cemetery with proper pathways, an organized array of graves, and a separate prayer area,” said Tahir Kamal, a resident of Tench Bhatta.

However, he voiced concerns over the rising costs of burial, estimating expenses at over Rs. 50,000, which is unaffordable for many families amid inflation. “Rakh Dhamiyal graveyard is a blessing for citizens in this regard,” he added.

Residents have also called for the renovation and expansion of existing graveyards. Waqas Ansaar from Gulzar-e-Quaid highlighted the poor condition of boundary walls, disorganized graves, and lack of maintenance. “Family members often neglect older graves due to generational gaps or migration,” he explained.

Inclusive Planning for Minorities

The Christian community has welcomed the allocation of 100 kanals for their burials. “This step addresses our growing population’s burial needs and promotes minorities’ rights,” said Winset David, a sports journalist from Lal Kurti.

He added that existing Christian cemeteries, such as the famous Gora Qabristan in Harley Street, are already full.

Despite its advantages, many residents remain unaware of the Rakh Dhamiyal graveyard. Located 14 km from Saddar, near Adyala Road, the cemetery offers free services, including digging and shrouds, for deserving families.

As the city embraces this sustainable solution, residents urge authorities to also invest in renovating and maintaining existing graveyards to preserve heritage and cater to the growing population’s needs.