LUCKNOW, May 18 -- Grieving families arriving at the Bhaisakund electric crematorium in the city are being forced to turn to costly wood-based cremations, as both machines at the facility lie defunct. Due to unavailability of the free option, families face costs of Rs.4,000 to Rs.5,000 for traditional rites, which becomes an added financial burden, especially those from economically weaker backgrounds.

A case in point is Ramgopal Sareen, a resident of Daliganj, who reached the Bhaisakund electric crematorium on Thursday carrying the body of his deceased father. However, he was turned away and directed towards the traditional cremation.

"This facility meant to ease the burden on the grieving families is causing more trouble," said Shivak...