Chennai, August 3, 2025 — In a significant step towards environmental responsibility, the Southern Railway has launched a new campaign urging passengers to avoid single-use plastic and instead carry meals in steel or reusable containers during train travel.
The initiative aligns with the Indian Railways’ broader mission to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable travel habits across the country.
🌿 A Greener Approach to Onboard Dining
The campaign encourages:
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Packing food in steel lunchboxes or eco-friendly containers
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Replacing disposable cutlery and plastic wraps
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Using designated bins for waste disposal at stations
By encouraging these practices, Southern Railway aims to significantly cut down plastic waste generated daily on trains and platforms.
♻️ Sustainability in Action
This move complements Indian Railways’ earlier decision to ban plastic below 50 microns across all railway premises and promote zero-waste zones. Railway staff are also being trained to support the green drive and educate passengers at major junctions and onboard long-distance routes.
Officials emphasized that even small individual choices — like choosing a reusable lunchbox — contribute to a cleaner, greener India.
👥 Passenger Awareness & Support
The campaign is being promoted through:
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Visual displays at major Southern Railway stations
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Announcements and signboards onboard trains
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Staff engagement with commuters on eco-friendly practices
Passengers have shown growing interest in joining this effort. Many frequent travelers have already adopted steel containers as a practical and sustainable choice for their journeys.
🔍 The Bigger Picture
Indian Railways handles nearly 23 million passengers daily, making waste management a national priority. Southern Railway’s regional campaign supports the Ministry of Railways’ broader commitment to environmental goals, including:
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Reduction of carbon emissions
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Conservation of natural resources
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Establishment of plastic-free railway zones
This latest initiative sets a clear message: responsible travel is not just about reaching a destination, but also about how we journey.
✅ Key Highlights
| Initiative | Details |
|---|---|
| Date Launched | August 3, 2025 |
| Region | Southern Railway |
| Focus | Reduce single-use plastic in meal packaging |
| Suggested Practice | Use steel or reusable containers |
| Long-Term Goal | Promote eco-conscious travel habits |
