World Environment Day 2025: Western Railway Launches 'Ending Plastic Pollution' Campaign With Cleanliness Drives, Awareness Initiatives & Sustainable Practices

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 toChief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, Vineet Abhishek, a special Launch and Awareness Campaign was conducted from 22nd to 24th May, 2025, encompassing extensive activities across various divisions and workshops. The campaign began with a public gathering and oath-taking ceremony, where officers and staff pledged to actively combat plastic pollution.

The campaign was rolled out across Western Railway, where activities such as pledge ceremonies, rallies, and nukkad nataks were organized. These initiatives witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 7,800 railway staff and members of the public.

Plastic waste assessment, disposal, and monitoring drives were carried out with active involvement of both railway personnel and citizens. These efforts aimed at reinforcing accountability and sustainable waste management practices.

To amplify awareness digitally, a social media campaign was also launched on official social media handles of Western Railway. Informative web cards were created and displayed prominently on TV screens at workshops, railway stations, offices, and even inside trains, including EMU services.

Awareness materials such as posters, pamphlets, and digital creatives promoting the use of recyclable alternatives and reinforcing the ban on Single Use Plastics (SUP) were extensively displayed at strategic locations including stations, offices, workshops, and inside coaches.

In addition, workshops on plastic reduction, recycling, and waste management were conducted. These sessions provided valuable insights into practical steps for reducing plastic use in day-to-day operations.

Under the theme “Carry Your Own Water Bottle,” public awareness drives were organized, encouraging both passengers and railway staff to adopt the use of reusable water bottles, thereby reducing dependency on disposable plastics.

Vineet further added that from 25th to 27th May, 2025, Cleanliness Drive was observed across Western Railway during which a series of impactful activities were carried out across various divisions and workshops. Waste segregation bins were ensured and awareness activities were conducted on platforms, where plastic waste collected from stations and railway colonies was handed over to recyclers or local authorities.

Cleanliness drives were also organized in collaboration with local communities and NGOs. To promote sustainable alternatives, eco-friendly biodegradable cutlery was introduced. In a further effort to enhance waste management, additional waste segregation bins were installed and awareness drives were held.

Staff sensitization programmes focusing on waste segregation and plastic reduction were conducted. Additionally, informative pamphlets detailing the harmful effects of plastic pollution and the benefits of eco-friendly alternatives were distributed among colony residents and railway staff.

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.