india

Updated: Jun 07, 2014 12:44 IST

The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) has issued a directive ordering that in the next fortnight, all the trains, platforms, toilets, waiting areas and station yards need to look visibly clean.

However, priority will be given to 'A1' and 'A' class stations that fetch railways revenues of over Rs. 60 crore and between Rs. 8 and Rs. 60 crore respectively. On the Central Railway (CR), five stations - Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), Dadar, Kalyan, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT)and Thane - fall under the 'A1' category, while Panvel falls under the 'A' class category.

On the Western Railway, Bombay Central Terminus and Bandra Terminus fall in the 'A1' category. In line with the PMO's orders, the CR plans to launch its cleanliness drive from next week.

In fact, the authorities have not only sought revision in the cleanliness funds but have also ordered painting of the stained walls and regular cleaning of railway toilets for women.

"We are launching a large scale drive on all A1 and A class stations, wherein emphasis will be laid on cleaning and washing of trains, stations and concourse area apart from painting and renovating the areas," said RD Sharma, chief commercial manager of Central Railway.

Bombay Central Terminus and Bandra Terminus earn Rs. 380 crore and Rs. 311 crore, the highest revenue in the city, while CST earns a revenue of Rs. 263crore and Thane a revenue of Rs. 110 crore.

Other than cleanliness drive, the railway authorities are also planning to launch a public awareness campaign by displaying banners and placards to ensure that hygiene at stations is maintained.

"We have decided to put up banners on the stations after it is cleaned so that the cleanliness is maintained," said Sharma.