Indian Railways is leaving no stone unturned in its efforts to ensure a clean and hygienic travel experience for its passengers. From equipping trains with bio-toilets to implementing mechanized cleaning and installing CCTV cameras in kitchens, the national transporter is taking a multi-pronged approach to improve sanitation and food quality.
Here’s a breakdown of their key initiatives:
Indian Railways’ Cleanliness:
Bio-toilets: All passenger coaches are now equipped with bio-toilets, eliminating the discharge of human waste onto tracks.
Mechanised cleaning: Both ends of trains undergo thorough cleaning using specialized equipment, including high-pressure jets and vacuum cleaners.
Onboard Housekeeping Service: Dedicated staff clean toilets, doorways, aisles, and compartments on long-distance trains during travel.
Clean Train Station scheme: Select trains receive additional cleaning attention at designated stations during scheduled stops.
Cleanliness campaigns: Regular drives and initiatives under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan strive for sustained improvements in cleanliness across stations and trains.
Indian Railways’ Catering:
Improved Kitchens: Base Kitchens and Kitchen Units have been upgraded for enhanced hygiene and food preparation standards.
CCTV cameras: Upgraded kitchens now have CCTV cameras for real-time monitoring of food preparation.
Regular inspections: Railway and IRCTC officials, including food safety officers, conduct regular and surprise inspections of kitchens.
Onboard IRCTC supervisors: Dedicated supervisors monitor catering services on trains.
Customized menus: IRCTC offers flexibility in menus to cater to regional preferences, seasonal delicacies, and dietary needs.
QR code transparency: Food packets now contain QR codes displaying details like kitchen name and packaging date.
Third-party audits: Independent agencies assess hygiene and cleanliness in kitchens and pantry cars.
FSSAI compliance: Designated Food Safety Officers provide mandatory certification for all catering units.
Rail Madad Portal: A dedicated portal allows passengers to lodge complaints and suggestions about cleanliness and food quality.
Real-time response: All complaints received through various channels are promptly addressed and resolved.
Indian Railways‘ surprise checks also ensure continuous adherence to cleanliness and food quality standards. These initiatives demonstrate Indian Railways’ commitment to providing a cleaner and more enjoyable travel experience for all passengers.