The oThongathi Crematorium has reopened after a two-year closure and a more than R6-million upgrade, restoring a vital service for families in the area.

Announcing the recommissioning on June 17, eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba said the reopening forms part of the municipality’s strategy to rehabilitate ageing crematoria infrastructure and eliminate service backlogs.

“I am happy that today it is being recommissioned and it will become open to the public once again,” said Xaba.

He apologised for the lengthy delay, saying some replacement parts had to be sourced from overseas.

The facility, which opened in 1973, underwent extensive upgrades, including the replacement of faulty furnaces and control systems that had caused prolonged service disruptions and inconvenience to residents.

The installation, testing and commissioning of new furnace infrastructure have now been completed, allowing the crematorium to resume full operations.

Xaba said the project reflects the municipality’s commitment to improving service delivery and maintaining critical infrastructure.

“The recommissioning of the oThongathi Crematorium not only restores a vital municipal service but also restores dignity and respect to the cultural and religious traditions that are deeply valued by our communities,” he said.

Local undertaker Elvis Pillay welcomed the reopening, saying families had previously been forced to travel to Stanger, Verulam or Shakaskraal, increasing costs during an already difficult time.