Mumbai: Western Railway (WR) is observing World Environment Day campaign from 22nd May to 5th June, 2025, with the central theme “Ending Plastic Pollution.” The initiative underscores WR’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and reducing plastic waste across its operations.
According to Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, Vineet Abhishek, during this fortnight, several awareness Campaigns were conducted, encompassing extensive activities across various divisions and workshops.
The campaign began on 22nd May with a public gathering and oath-taking ceremony, where officers and staff pledged to actively combat plastic pollution. Various activities are being conducted across Western Railway from 28th May to 2nd June, 2025.
Western Railway staff and passengers participate in plastic-free awareness drive ahead of World Environment Day 2025 | File Photo
Vineet informed that, A ‘Reduce Plastic Pollution campaign was observed across Western Railway during which a series of impactful activities were carried across all six divisions as well as Workshops.
Passengers were educated and encouraged to make use of plastic bottle crushing machines to dispose off single use plastic bottles and reduce littering at stations. Food Stalls and water refill points were inspected to reduce single use plastic usage.
Additionally, through public announcements at railway stations passengers were encouraged to refill water in their own bottles and limit the use of plastic bottles. Onboard catering services were also encouraged to adopt eco-friendly alternatives.
Other initiatives included organizing Nukkad Nataks to promote alternatives to single-use plastics and interactive awareness sessions were held with staff. Furthermore, food stall vendors and staff were sensitized about reducing microplastic pollution, and cleanliness drives were continued across more locations.
Further, Vineet stated that continuing in this initiative another campaign titled Sustainable Railway Operations was also observed during this period Western Railways has successfully conducted a series of initiatives, The initiatives were implemented across various stations, Railway colonies, Workshops etc. focusing on key areas such as maintenance of Railway colonies, gardens and parks in Railway premises, waste management and community engagement.
During this campaign, Western Railway organized a range of activities, including a special drive to maintain parks around railway stations, greenery and park maintenance in railway colonies.
Additionally, Nukkad Nataks were organized to spread environmental awareness and community engagement clean-up drives were conducted at around stations, tracks, colonies and nearby areas.
Drawing, Essay and Quiz competitions were conducted on the theme of a ‘Sustainable Environment’. Other activities included training on sustainable practices and Waste Management as well as distribution of cloth/jute bags among railway commuters.
Furthermore, digital and paperless ticketing were promoted at various stations. Eco-friendly products like bamboo toothbrushes and neem combs were promoted for sale under the ‘One Station One Product’ scheme.
Western Railway continues to promote environmental consciousness through such initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to a cleaner, greener future. The ongoing activities until 5th June, 2025, i.e., World Environment Day, aim to further strengthen the message of responsible plastic usage and environmental stewardship.
