Indian Railways Introduces Onboard Cleaning Teams for Long-Distance Trains, Minister Announces Major Reform

In a significant move aimed at improving passenger comfort, Indian Railways has announced a revamped onboard cleaning system for long-distance trains. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw revealed that cleaning will no longer be limited to select stations. Instead, trained housekeeping teams will now operate inside trains throughout the journey to maintain hygiene standards in real time.

The new initiative is designed to enhance the overall travel experience for millions of daily passengers and marks a shift from periodic station-based cleaning to continuous onboard maintenance.

Cleaning During the Journey, Not Just at Stations

Until now, under the Clean Train Station system, coaches were cleaned primarily at designated stoppages. However, the updated framework ensures that professional cleaning staff will be deployed directly onboard long-distance trains.

These teams will carry out cleaning of coaches, toilets, and washbasins at regular intervals—potentially every hour or whenever required. The frequency of cleaning will vary based on peak and non-peak travel hours, ensuring greater attention during high-traffic periods.

Importantly, the new cleaning model will also cover general class coaches, expanding the scope of hygiene services beyond premium categories.

Technology-Driven Monitoring Through War Rooms

To ensure accountability and efficiency, technology-based monitoring systems will be established. According to the minister, centralized “war rooms” will oversee real-time operations, track performance metrics, and gather passenger feedback.

This digital monitoring system will help maintain service standards and ensure that service providers meet defined benchmarks. Real-time reporting and performance evaluation will strengthen oversight and improve responsiveness.

The move reflects a broader push toward data-driven governance within Indian Railways, where passenger experience is increasingly being prioritized.

Services Covered Under the New System

The onboard housekeeping teams will be responsible for:

• Regular cleaning of train coaches

• Sanitation of toilets and washbasins

• Emptying and managing dustbins

• Minor maintenance work

• Ensuring water availability in coaches

• Inspection and reporting of safety equipment

By combining cleaning with routine maintenance checks, the railways aim to prevent service gaps during long journeys. This integrated approach is expected to reduce complaints and improve hygiene standards across the network.

Pilot Phase in 80 Trains

Initially, the reform will be implemented in 80 selected long-distance trains. Based on passenger feedback and operational performance, the model may later be expanded across the entire railway network.

Officials have indicated that the pilot phase will help identify logistical challenges and fine-tune the system before a nationwide rollout.

Boost to Freight Operations Alongside Passenger Reforms

In addition to passenger-focused improvements, Indian Railways is also strengthening its freight operations. Plans are underway to develop cargo-related infrastructure on unused railway land. Proposed developments include:

• Warehouses

• Grinding and processing units

• Aggregation facilities

Under the government’s PM Gati Shakti initiative, underutilized goods sheds will be converted into Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals to enhance efficiency and logistics capacity.

Simplified Dispute Resolution for Freight Terminals

The railway administration has also announced simplified procedures for converting private sidings and goods terminals into Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals. A structured dispute resolution mechanism will be introduced, with Divisional Railway Managers authorized to handle disputes directly.

This reform aims to streamline operations, reduce bureaucratic delays, and improve coordination with private stakeholders.

Focus on Passenger Comfort and Operational Efficiency

The combined reforms signal Indian Railways’ commitment to modernization. Continuous onboard cleaning addresses long-standing passenger concerns about hygiene during extended journeys. At the same time, freight sector upgrades are expected to boost revenue and logistics efficiency.

For travelers, the most immediate impact will be cleaner coaches and better-maintained facilities throughout their journey. If the pilot phase proves successful, passengers across India may soon experience a noticeable improvement in train travel standards.

As Indian Railways moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains clear: delivering a cleaner, safer, and more reliable travel experience while strengthening its freight backbone.