Residents of the Antúnez de Mayolo neighborhood in Santiago de Surco have raised their voices against the installation of a crematorium just 10 meters from their homes. Concerned about potential pollution, the neighbors have begun to protest, claiming that construction is already in its final stages, according to community leader Jorge Yuri Keng. “The chimneys are 10 or 15 meters away. This will generate pollution for the homes and for the entire area,” Keng stated. This impact could affect at least 80 nearby families and more than 2000 in adjacent buildings and condominiums.
The residents criticize the lack of prior consultation and assert that they learned about the project suddenly when a company arrived to install gas lines, which turned out to be for the crematorium. They also question the legality of the crematorium’s location, as regulations require it to be no less than 500 meters from residential areas. “It is inhumane for children to ask about the smoke or the odors,” Keng added.
The neighbors have announced that they will submit documents to entities such as DIGESA and the Ministry of the Environment to halt the crematorium’s operation. Meanwhile, the Surco Municipality defended the project, stating that it complies with all environmental regulations and that emission control systems will be implemented to ensure the safety of residents.
