Mumbai’s suburban railway stations have long struggled with dirty and unhygienic toilets. The condition of these public facilities is so poor that passengers often have to hold their breath while using them. Several complaints have been raised regarding the issue, prompting Western Railway to take serious steps toward improving sanitation at railway station toilets.
As part of this initiative, the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Western Railway has launched a cleanliness drive across the stations. A survey is currently being conducted to assess the condition of toilets at 110 stations.
Western Railway has initiated a survey of all toilets at Mumbai division stations. So far, 50 stations have been surveyed, and a list has been compiled. The remaining 60 stations are currently being assessed. The survey aims to determine how many toilets are operated by contractors and how many are managed by the railway department itself. Notably, the railway department is responsible for the maintenance and cleanliness of the toilets it operates. The survey will evaluate the toilets’ overall condition, including wall tiles, water taps, sanitation facilities, and the need for renovation.
CSR Participation in Cleanliness Drive
According to Western Railway’s plan, prominent stations like Churchgate, Mumbai Central, Dadar, Bandra, Andheri, and Borivali—where passenger footfall is high—will welcome agencies willing to participate under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Meanwhile, for smaller stations with lower passenger traffic, the railway will handle the sanitation and upkeep of toilets directly.
Three Options for Maintenance
According to Western Railway, stations requiring toilet renovations will be upgraded under the “Renovate, Operate, Maintain, Transfer” (ROMT) policy. The railway has three options for ensuring toilet cleanliness: departmental maintenance, pay-and-use toilets (managed by contractors), and CSR funding. Railway officials stated that the most suitable option will be implemented based on the specific needs of each station.
“Providing clean toilets for railway passengers is our primary vision. During inspections, I pay special attention to cleanliness and hold the concerned department accountable for any lapses. A survey is being conducted to ensure sanitation at railway stations, and necessary improvements will be made based on the results.”
Pankaj Kumar Singh, DRM, Western Railway
