TAASIR :– S M HASSAN 5 JUNE
Cleanliness drives at around 1200 stations, more than 740 workshops organised
Approximately 150 tonnes of plastic waste disposed of during the campaign
Railway officials and employees took an oath for environmental conservation.
New Delhi: On the occasion of World Environment Day, Indian Railways organized a special fifteen-day campaign from 22nd May to 5th June. Under this year’s theme “Beat Plastic Pollution,” various awareness activities were conducted across all zones, divisions, stations, and offices of Indian Railways. Railway employees, passengers, general public, and other stakeholders actively participated in this campaign. Activities included plastic waste assessment, segregation of waste, review of plastic bottle crushing machines, initiatives for cleanliness and water conservation, and awareness programs aimed at reducing plastic usage.
On 5th June, a pledge for environmental protection was undertaken, emphasizing reduced plastic usage, cleanliness, and energy conservation. At the Railway Board level, the pledge was administered by the Member (Traction and Rolling Stock), in presence of other Board Members and General Managers of Zonal Railways present via video conferencing. On this occasion, Indian Railways also released its Annual Environment Sustainability Report. During the campaign, approximately 150 tonnes of plastic waste were safely disposed of. Awareness was spread through posters and digital media at over 1230 stations. More than 740 workshops were organized, cleanliness drives were conducted at 1200 stations, performance of over 180 plastic bottle crushing machines was reviewed, and around 230 street plays (nukkad nataks) were performed to raise awareness at the grassroots level.
Indian Railways remains consistently committed to environmental sustainability. A comprehensive plan worth ₹750 crore has been approved for the year 2025–26, dedicated to environmental activities. So far, 98% of Broad Gauge routes have been electrified. Solar rooftop installations at 3512 stations and service buildings have created an power generation capacity of approximately 227 MW. All railway stations, offices, and residential complexes have been equipped with 100% LED lighting. Additionally, Indian Railways has taken concrete steps toward environmental preservation through initiatives such as the development of hydrogen fuel-based trains, the plantation of 9.7 crore saplings since 2014, and the installation of 100% bio-toilets in passenger coaches.
Indian Railways, embracing its environmental responsibility, remains determined to build a greener and cleaner transportation system in the future.