Indian Railways has come under criticism recently after one of its employees was caught breaching cleanliness norms. The incident, which became public on social media, resulted in quick action by the authorities. In a statement by the authorities, it is said that the employee was removed on 27th February, which is the date the incident happened. The move shows the intent of Indian Railways to maintain discipline and cleanliness on its network.
Indian Railways’ Response To Cleanliness Issues
This staff was removed on 27/2, the same day on which he committed this act. https://t.co/WbPHkmC4DE
— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) March 6, 2025
The incident also questioned the railway staff practising the standards of cleanliness. Passengers and social media have called for stricter adherence to hygiene standards to achieve a cleaner and safer ride. Indian Railways have repeatedly made efforts to enhance cleanliness, but this incident of throwing garbage in the railway tracks by senior IRCTC staff is a reminder that monitoring and accountability are crucial on an ongoing basis.
After the removal, Indian Railways released a statement reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy for hygiene violations. The speedy dismissal of the employee is proof of the point that actions are being undertaken to ensure cleanliness. Officials have assured passengers that steps will continue to enhance sanitation on railway platforms and in trains.
In recent times, Indian Railways has introduced various sanitation campaigns, such as the ‘Swachh Rail, Swachh Bharat’ drive. This campaign is directed towards improved waste management practices, improved toilet facilities, and information campaigns among staff and travellers.
Netizens Respond To The Desecration of Cleanliness
The problem runs deep. Firing the staff is not solving anything. Please make the waste disposal mechanism public.
— Lord Immy Kant (Eastern Exile) (@KantInEast) March 6, 2025
This isn’t a real solution. Most railway cleaning staff do the same thing, and passengers follow along. There should be a proper waste disposal system and a rule book to educate and train them. Because of this, the tracks end up covered in plastic and bottles, which looks awful.
— Aaraynsh (@aaraynsh) March 6, 2025
Make him clean all the rail track where he threw the Garbage
— Rowdy Rathore (@dhruvlathia2) March 6, 2025
The incident has also drawn fiery reactions online, most of which were calling for increased surveillance. According to a commenter, ‘If Indian Railways can react this fast, why not make cleanliness checks a regular practice?’
One posted, ‘Quick action is well and good, but will it guarantee permanent changes? More awareness and training are necessary.’ Other users also emphasised the necessity for proper waste management systems at train stations.
It is the responsibility of everyone to keep the vast railway network clean. Even though the authorities must ensure strict adherence, the passengers, too, have to play their role by adhering to cleanliness norms.
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What can be done next to prevent such abuses from occurring in the future?
Cover Image Courtesy: @gharkekalesh/X & @RailMinIndia/X
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First Published: March 06, 2025 7:46 PM