Mumbai Trains Get A Clean Upgrade: CR to Install Row-Wise Dustbins In Coaches

Central Railway (CR) has started installing dustbins next to every row inside air-conditioned coaches of long-distance trains, according to a Hindustan Times (HT) report. This initiative comes in response to increasing complaints about unclean coaches. A trial period began earlier this month with the 11057 Mumbai CSMT-Amritsar Express and will soon extend to four more trains in the coming days.

According to CR authorities, the trial involves stainless steel, leg-operated dustbins placed under tray tables fixed below the windows. Each row in the 16-coach train's AC coaches now features two portable bins. Previously, this space was often used by passengers to store small bags.

"These bins were trialled for nearly two weeks, and the response has been very positive. We plan to extend this initiative to other AC coaches of at least four more trains in the next two days," said a CR official in the HT report.

Fewer Complaints During Trial Run

The CSMT-Amritsar Express, which had been a frequent subject of cleanliness complaints on CR's 'Rail Madad' app, has shown significant improvement during the trial. Complaints about overflowing dustbins and accumulated garbage under seats have reportedly decreased. Housekeeping staff now monitor the bins hourly during the day, replacing the garbage bags when necessary.

Currently, dustbins are only available below washbasins in most trains. These bins often overflow early in the journey and are only emptied at the destination. The new initiative aims to ensure better waste management throughout the trip.

Expansion Plans

CR officials plan to expand the installation of row-wise dustbins to First AC, Second AC, and Third AC coaches of additional long-distance trains, as per the same report. They also hope to include trains running to destinations like Gorakhpur, Patna, and Lucknow before the end of 2024. By March 2025, all trains departing from Mumbai, including those from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT), are expected to feature these dustbins.

Officials are also considering introducing this facility in Sleeper Coaches, depending on feedback from passengers. While theft of the dustbins remains a concern, CR is exploring lock systems to prevent such incidents.

This initiative is part of CR's broader efforts to improve passenger experience and maintain cleaner trains throughout their journeys.