Indian Railways is spending a staggering ₹1,200 crore annually to clean gutka and paan stains from trains and railway stations across the country, underscoring the scale of the challenge posed by poor public hygiene practices.
The massive expenditure highlights how everyday habits like spitting gutka and paan are not only damaging public infrastructure but also placing a heavy financial burden on one of the world’s largest railway networks. Maintaining cleanliness across thousands of trains and stations requires continuous manpower, cleaning equipment, and resources.
Despite ongoing awareness campaigns under initiatives like Swachh Bharat, the persistence of such habits continues to impact the overall travel experience for millions of passengers. Dirty compartments, stained platforms, and unhygienic surroundings remain a concern for both commuters and authorities.
Officials have repeatedly stressed the importance of public cooperation in maintaining cleanliness, noting that sustainable change can only be achieved when citizens take responsibility for shared spaces. The cost incurred in cleaning could otherwise be utilised for improving infrastructure, passenger amenities, and services.
The issue once again brings into focus the need for stricter enforcement, higher penalties, and stronger awareness drives to encourage behavioural change and promote a cleaner, more responsible travel environment across India.
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