In a pioneering step toward sustainable railway operations, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has introduced a comprehensive plastic waste management system at Guwahati Railway Station, paving the way for it to become India’s first fully plastic recyclable station.
The initiative is being implemented under a three-party Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between NFR, the Pollution Control Board of Assam, and a local recycling partner, with technical expertise provided by IIT Guwahati.
The system features colour-coded bins for waste segregation, bottle crushing machines, composting units, and a QR code-based monitoring mechanism to ensure real-time tracking of waste management efficiency. “Eco-friendly compostable bags, developed by IIT Guwahati, have replaced single-use plastics in trains, significantly reducing plastic waste generation,” said K.K. Sharma, Chief Public Relations Officer of NFR.
The initiative forms part of Indian Railways’ Green Mission 2030, which seeks to make major stations across the country environmentally sustainable. Guwahati’s transformation into a zero-plastic, circular-waste model is expected to serve as a blueprint for replication across other zones.
To enhance public participation, NFR has launched “Waste-to-Art” exhibitions, street plays, and digital awareness campaigns promoting responsible waste disposal. Officials said these efforts have led to a 60% reduction in passenger cleanliness complaints, indicating rising environmental awareness among travelers.
NFR officials added that the integration of IIT Guwahati’s biodegradable alternatives and real-time monitoring tools marks a significant technological leap in railway waste management. “Our goal is not only to eliminate plastic waste but to create a sustainable ecosystem that engages passengers, vendors, and railway staff alike,” Sharma said.
With Guwahati Railway Station leading the charge, the initiative underscores Indian Railways’ growing commitment to climate-friendly operations and circular waste economy principles in line with India’s broader sustainability targets.
