Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) has confirmed that cremation services at the Lenasia Crematorium have resumed following the restoration of its gas supply.
JCPZ spokesperson, Jenny Moodley, expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to bereaved families, funeral directors and the broader community during the interruption. “JCPZ wishes to confirm that the gas supply at the Lenasia Crematorium has been reinstated and cremation services have resumed,” Moodley said.
The response followed a complaint received by Globe Post about the disruption by Preyalan Pillay, a Lenasia-based cultural activist and Crematorium Committee member.
Moodley added that Brixton Crematorium was available as an alternative during unplanned disruptions but acknowledged the burden this placed on families. “JCPZ acknowledges that travelling to alternative facilities places an additional burden on grieving families, particularly those residing in Lenasia and surrounding communities,” she said.
To prevent further interruptions, cemetery administrators have been instructed to monitor gas reserves and formally notify management when levels reach 50%, and again at 30%. “These measures will provide an early-warning mechanism to facilitate timely replenishment, strengthen internal accountability and reduce the likelihood of future service disruptions,” Moodley said.
JCPZ also thanked the Hindu Crematorium Committee for its continued vigilance and constructive engagement in highlighting operational challenges.
Pillay welcomed the restoration of services and expressed his gratitude to Moodley for JCPZ’s intervention. ‘’This is an essential service, and interruptions add to the distress of families already grieving. Interruptions cause great difficulty for families, especially those who must travel out to Lenasia. We alsowelcome the monitoring measures announced. Consistent implementation will be vital to preventing a recurrence,” he said.
