Cape Town Metro says that while the demand for graves and cremation for Covid-19 victims is still manageable, it is preparing additional individual graves in anticipation of the peak of Covid-19 deaths to ensure victims’ dignity.
According to a statement from the metro council, on average, there are an average of 200 burials and 350 cremations a month in the city’s cemeteries and crematoriums. Additional capacity is also provided by private cemeteries and crematoriums.
It is estimated that there may be up to 5,280 deaths a month amid the peak – Covid-19 and other deaths.
According to the subway, he has plenty of space for graves. There are a few cemeteries with plenty of space and an analysis shows the Atlantis, Welmoed, Klip, Maitland and Wallacedene cemeteries have the most available space where numerous funerals can be accommodated at the same time.
Statistics show the biggest demand for funerals is on Saturdays. The metro council is asking residents to consider considering burial on weekdays instead, at reduced rates.
As the number of burials increases, new rules can be introduced to distribute burials over other days of the week so that cemeteries’ capacity is utilized effectively and there is sufficient time to prepare adequately.
“We want to encourage people to consider cremation, especially where their cultural and religious beliefs do not exclude it,” says Dr. Zahid Badroodien, Mayor Committee Member for Community Services and Health.
