Burial costs

Instead of grieving over their loved ones, low- and middle-income families are now more concerned about affording a funeral for the deceased. Following an increase in taxes in the federal budget and surging inflation, the cost of graveyard space in cemeteries, labour charges for preparing graves, and prices of shrouds are skyrocketing. In the absence of government relief or support for vulnerable groups, burials have become an ordeal.

Some non-governmental organisations and philanthropists have arranged free shroud sets and shopkeepers also provide shrouds for free if they are told that the deceased belonged to a poor family. At times, some well-to-do members of society also finance the funerals of those whose families cannot afford to arrange funds for the purpose. Unfortunately, not all citizens are met with such compassionate and considerate individuals and many have to resort to borrowing money to fulfil the burial rites of their deceased relatives. During these difficult times, the relevant government departments should step up efforts to facilitate needy families in fulfilling the burial rites of their loved ones in a dignified manner. Currently, only federal employees have access to funeral grants; these must be extended to middle- and low-income families as well.

Perhaps, the government can work with non-governmental organisations to facilitate funeral costs for those belonging to poorer backgrounds. Private organisations should be encouraged to offer funeral grants to employees. Often, retailers charge shrouds and other miscellaneous items arbitrarily or create artificial shortages to increase their profits. The government must regulate the price of shrouds and the costs of graveyard spaces to avoid the exploitation of vulnerable people. With the ever-escalating prices, the government must take immediate steps to bring some relief to the masses.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 20^th, 2022.

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