In a major step towards sustainability, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has announced plans to transform the Guwahati Railway Station into a fully plastic-recyclable hub by August 15, marking Independence Day with a significant environmental milestone.
The initiative aims to tackle plastic pollution across the railway network and will be implemented in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Guwahati and the Assam Pollution Control Board (PCBA).
NFR’s Chief Public Relations Officer Kapinjal Kishore Sharma confirmed that M/s Kusum Udyog, a PCBA-approved recycling agency, has been tasked with submitting a comprehensive project proposal.
Under the project, all plastic waste generated at Guwahati station will be collected, shredded, washed, and properly segregated before being recycled. The plan also includes:
A joint waste audit by NFR, IIT-Guwahati, and PCBA
Review of current waste disposal practices
Identification of high-impact zones at the station
Formulation of a joint action plan to minimize single-use plastic
Introduction of sustainable waste management protocols
Sharma noted that the collaboration emphasizes innovation and accountability:
“We are working in tandem with IIT-Guwahati and the Pollution Control Board to ensure the initiative is both scientifically sound and practically effective.”
To complement the infrastructure effort, Scouts and Guides of NFR have launched a passenger awareness campaign, featuring:
Placard displays
Street plays and drama performances
Public interactions at station premises
These outreach activities aim to engage both passengers and railway staff, encouraging them to contribute to the movement against plastic pollution.
