Residents complain about pet crematorium in Paklok

Paklok residents have complained that they are facing problems from smoke from a private pet cremation business.

The operator has responded to the complaints at the Damrongdhama Centre saying that they have a legal construction license to conduct the cremation services. Residents are opposing the business after the first three months of operation.

The new pet cremation business was established in November. The operator rents part of the Soponwanaram Temple (Paklok Temple) area. The business is named ‘Pet Cremation by Dr. Boonchit (Phuket)’. The business provides services for all kinds of pet cremation. The fee costs from 2,000 baht for an animal that weighs less 10kg. If more than 10kg, the cost increase to 100 baht per kilogram. The business also provides transportation of the dead pet.

The news comes after local residents nearby were complaining that smoke and bad smells are coming from the facility.

Local residents have been getting together and planning their strategy. The business owner, veterinarian Dr. Boonchit Sriaram and his team, also met up with local residents.

One of local residents, who asked not to be named, said, “This has been a problem since November last year. They requested a construction permit from the Paklok Municipality. From November last year to January this year there have been more than 30 animals cremated.”

“We have complained to the municipality. Both parties have met several times but the problems still cannot be solved. They are still burning animals even after they’ve been asked to temporarily stop while environmental offices are investigating the issue. We do not understand why the operator didn’t ask us before starting the business. We want them to stop while the problems are being solved,” he added.

Veterinarian Dr Boonchit says “The business is inspired by other temples that provide pet cremation services for pet lovers. We think that Phuket should have a place where they can cremate their beloved pets. If these pets are dumped it is not good for sanitation or a good solution. We rented the temple area for 6,000 baht per month for a two year contract.”

The Phuket Governor Norraphat Plodthong says, “we have ordered relevant officers to find a solution to this issue which must be fair to everyone.”