Western Railway Observes World Environment Day with Campaign to End Plastic Pollution

Mumbai, May 28: In a proactive step towards environmental sustainability, Western Railway (WR) has launched a two-week campaign from May 22 to June 5, 2025, to mark World Environment Day, with a strong focus on the theme “Ending Plastic Pollution.” The initiative, led by the Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, Shri Vineet Abhishek, highlights the railway’s commitment to combating plastic waste and promoting eco-conscious practices across its vast network.

The campaign was inaugurated with a public gathering and oath-taking ceremony, where thousands of WR officers and staff pledged their dedication to fighting plastic pollution. The event kick-started a range of impactful activities held across WR’s divisions and workshops, drawing enthusiastic participation from over 7,800 railway personnel and members of the public.

Activities during the initial phase (May 22–24) included pledge ceremonies, cleanliness rallies, and nukkad nataks (street plays), all aimed at raising awareness about plastic pollution. A comprehensive assessment of plastic waste generation was also carried out, followed by its proper disposal and monitoring — an effort that involved both railway staff and local communities.

To extend the campaign’s reach, WR launched a parallel digital awareness drive through its official social media platforms. Informative web cards and creatives promoting eco-friendly alternatives and the ban on Single Use Plastics (SUPs) were widely disseminated. These visuals were prominently displayed on station TVs, inside trains including EMU services, and at railway offices and workshops.

Public outreach also included distribution of posters, pamphlets, and digital materials urging passengers and staff to reduce plastic use. The "Carry Your Own Water Bottle" campaign, a key part of the drive, encouraged commuters to switch to reusable bottles — a small but significant step toward curbing disposable plastic use.

From May 25 to 27, a large-scale Cleanliness Drive was conducted across WR’s jurisdiction. This included intensified waste segregation efforts, installation of additional bins, and awareness drives at railway platforms and colonies. The collected plastic waste was responsibly handed over to recyclers or local municipal bodies. In collaboration with NGOs and local communities, WR also introduced biodegradable cutlery at select locations, further promoting sustainable alternatives.

Workshops and sensitization sessions on recycling, plastic reduction, and eco-conscious behavior were held for both staff and residents of railway colonies. Informative pamphlets outlining the harmful effects of plastic and the benefits of eco-friendly practices were widely distributed.

Western Railway’s ongoing campaign will continue until June 5, culminating on World Environment Day. With this multi-pronged effort, WR reinforces its dedication to building a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for all.