Experiencing the loss of a loved one is an emotionally challenging time, and when it occurs in a foreign country like Australia, the process of bringing them back home for their final rites can be overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps and requirements for transporting a deceased individual from Australia to India, aiming to simplify the process as much as possible.
Step 1: Hospital Clearance and Death Certificate
The initial and most crucial step is obtaining clearance from the hospital authorities where the individual passed away. A certified doctor will issue a death
certificate detailing the necessary information about the deceased. It’s essential to review the certificate for accuracy, ensuring that it includes details such as name, age, gender, date of birth, date and time of death, cause of death, permanent address, doctor’s signature or seal, and the hospital’s stamp. The death certificate should be available in both English and the language of the respective countries involved. It’s advisable to make several photocopies of the death certificate as various authorities may require them during the repatriation process.
Step 2: Arrange a Freezing Box
To prevent body decomposition during the process, it’s crucial to arrange for a freezing box. While hospitals often provide freezing boxes, if unavailable, assistance can be sought from a mortuary ambulance, which should be provided by the hospital authorities at no additional cost.
Step 3: Notify Local Authorities
Inform the nearest local police station about the passing of the deceased individual. They will issue a no-objection certificate (NOC), which is essential for further proceedings and documentation.
Step 4: Embalming Service (If Required)
In cases where the repatriation process might take several days, relying solely on the freezing box may not be sufficient to prevent decomposition. Embalming, a preservation process that delays decay, may be necessary. Seek out a clinic or certified embalming service centre to perform this procedure and ensure the prompt acquisition of an embalming certificate.
Step 5: Mandatory Documents for Air Cargo Clearance
Successful repatriation relies on having all necessary documents in order. These documents include:
- Death certificates
- Copy of the post-mortem report
- No objection certificate (NOC) from the police
- No objection certificate from the respective countries’ consulate
- Embalming certificate
- Coffin certificates
- Photo identification (such as an Aadhar card or driver’s license)
- Contact details of all relevant authorities involved in the legal process
Multiple photocopies of each document should be made, as various authorities may require them during the transportation process.
Step 6: Arrange an Ambulance with Freezing Service
Once all mandatory documents are gathered and the body is prepared, arrange for an ambulance equipped with freezing services to transport the deceased to the airport.
Step 7: Urgent Ticket Booking
Due to the unpredictable nature of the repatriation process, booking tickets in advance can be challenging. Inquire about air cargo services that offer deceased body repatriation and book tickets promptly, either through phone calls or online platforms. Inform the Airway Bill (AWB) department about the repatriation within three hours of departure.
Cost of Transportation:
Transporting a deceased loved one from Australia to India can be an expensive undertaking, but it allows family and friends to bid their final farewells and perform essential rituals. The cost varies depending on specific circumstances and requirements associated with the process.
Time Required:
The time needed for international repatriation can vary based on various factors, including post-mortem procedures, death certificate issuance, and the availability of cargo shipment flights. On average, the process can take anywhere from two to three days, although this timeframe is not fixed.
Conclusion:
Transporting a deceased individual from Australia to India involves a series of complex steps and documentation requirements. During this challenging time, seeking assistance from professionals and organizations like Kaashimukthi can make the process more manageable and less stressful. While the emotional pain of losing a loved one persists, having a clear guide can ensure a dignified farewell and a final journey home.
Also Read: The Importance of Freezer Boxes for Deceased Storage in Today’s Mortuaries