Dealing with the loss of a loved one is an emotionally challenging experience, and during such times, making arrangements for the deceased can be overwhelming. One of the essential aspects of post-death arrangements is finding a place to keep the body preserved until the final rites are performed. In Delhi, there are several hospitals and government facilities that offer morgue services in Delhi, helping families who need temporary body preservation. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to arrange free morgue services in Delhi, including eligibility, documentation, procedures, and key locations.
What Are Morgue Services?
A morgue is a facility where dead bodies are stored and preserved at a controlled temperature to prevent decomposition. These services are essential in cases where the family needs time to complete legal formalities, wait for relatives to arrive, or make funeral arrangements.
Morgue services are provided by government hospitals, municipal authorities, and private organizations, with some offering free storage options for a limited period.
Who Can Avail Free Morgue Services?
Free morgue services in Delhi are available for:
Families who need time for funeral arrangements
Unclaimed bodies awaiting legal formalities
Accident victims requiring post-mortem examination
Bodies of deceased individuals where legal disputes are involved
Cases under police investigation
Steps to Arrange Free Morgue Services in Delhi
Step 1: Obtain a Death Certificate
Before approaching a morgue, a death certificate must be obtained from a registered medical practitioner or hospital. If the death occurred at home, a doctor’s certification or police verification may be required.
Step 2: Identify a Free Morgue Facility
Several government-run hospitals and municipal morgues provide free storage facilities. Here are some well-known options in Delhi:
AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences), Delhi
Safdarjung Hospital
Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital
Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital
Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital
Deen Dayal Upadhyay (DDU) Hospital
Hindu Rao Hospital
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
To avail free morgue services, the following documents are generally required:
Death certificate from a doctor or hospital
Government-issued ID proof of the deceased (Aadhar card, PAN card, etc.)
ID proof of the next of kin or applicant
FIR copy (in case of accidental or suspicious death)
Police clearance (if required)
Step 4: Transportation of the Body to the Morgue
If the body is at home or in a private hospital, it needs to be transported to the morgue. Free ambulance services are available in Delhi, which can be availed through:
102 108 Emergency Ambulance Services
Delhi Government Ambulance Services
NGOs providing free ambulance support
Hospital-provided hearse vans
Step 5: Morgue Admission and Storage Duration
Once the required documents are verified, the body will be admitted to the morgue. Free morgue facilities usually allow storage for 24 to 72 hours, depending on the facility and the circumstances. If a longer duration is required, special permission may be needed.
Special Cases: Unclaimed or Unknown Bodies
In cases where the body is unclaimed or unidentified, the police handle the morgue arrangements. The body is stored for a specific period while authorities try to locate the next of kin. If unclaimed within the given timeframe, the government arranges for cremation or burial as per protocol.
Free Morgue Services vs. Private Morgue Services
While government hospitals provide free morgue services, private facilities offer additional benefits such as extended storage, better preservation, and dedicated staff, but at a cost. However, families in financial distress can rely on NGOs and charitable organizations that provide assistance at minimal or no charges.
How to Find Free Morgue Services Near You?
To locate a free morgue facility in Delhi:
Visit the nearest government hospital and inquire at the reception.
Contact local police stations for guidance on morgue services.
Use online directories or the Delhi government’s health department website.
Call 102 or 108 for emergency assistance.
Conclusion
Arranging morgue services in Delhi is a crucial step for families dealing with the loss of a loved one. Understanding the process, gathering the required documents, and knowing where to go can make this difficult time a little more manageable. Government hospitals and municipal morgues provide free body storage, ensuring that families have the necessary time to organize funeral rites with dignity and respect.
If you or someone you know is in need of morgue services, reach out to government hospitals, NGOs, or emergency helplines for prompt assistance.
