Indian Railways has introduced new rules for cleanliness to improve waste disposal at railway stations. Under the ‘Swachh Rail-Swachh Bharat’ campaign, waste will now be divided into four categories instead of three. This system will first be started at major stations including Prayagraj, Kanpur Central, New Delhi, and Howrah to ensure scientific disposal and recycling.
What are the 4 colors of dustbins and their uses?
To make waste segregation easy for passengers, the railway board has designated specific colors for different types of waste. This will help in better recycling and cleaning of the stations.
| Dustbin Color | Waste Category |
|---|---|
| Green | Wet Waste |
| Blue | Dry Waste |
| Red | Sanitary Waste |
| Black | Special Waste |
What are the new rules under Solid Waste Management 2026?
These changes are part of the Solid Waste Management Rules 2026, which became effective across the country on April 1, 2026. The Railway Board’s Executive Director, Vinay Kumar झा, issued a letter to all zones on April 20, 2026, to implement these guidelines. Large waste producers like stations, workshops, and catering units must now manage their own waste disposal.
What are the penalties for littering on platforms?
The railway administration will now be stricter with people throwing garbage on platforms and tracks. New rules notified on April 8, 2026, include fines and a new provision for community service. Instead of jail for minor offenses, offenders may be asked to clean the station. Additionally, fines for illegal vending have also been increased to maintain discipline.