West Bengal’s Eastern Railway (ER) has cracked down on unhygienic practices, collecting over Rs 32 lakh in fines from individuals spitting at railway stations across its network in the first three months of 2025.

A staggering 31,576 people were penalised between January and March, resulting in a total collection of Rs 32,31,740, an official confirmed.

Railway authorities say that spitting not only mars the aesthetic appeal of railway premises and train compartments but also significantly compromises hygiene and sanitation levels, impacting fellow passengers.

The extensive network of CCTV cameras installed at railway stations and other railway properties plays a crucial role in detecting offenders, leading to immediate penal action, including fines and potential imprisonment.

The railway underscored its ongoing commitment to maintaining cleanliness at station premises and ensuring waste-free railway tracks throughout its jurisdiction. “One of the major hurdles faced is the prevalent practice among some passengers and rail users of indiscriminately spitting and littering on platforms and station premises,” an ER official said.

In a bid to foster a sense of responsibility, the ER also recognised and encouraged passengers and vendors who demonstrated exemplary cleanliness habits by presenting them with roses.

They have been actively conducting comprehensive awareness campaigns at various stations to educate passengers and rail users about the critical importance of maintaining cleanliness. These regular campaigns involve the active participation of state Health Department personnel, the Railway Protection Force (RPF), and station staff.

The railway’s efforts are further bolstered by the RPF, which apprehended over 10,000 individuals in October 2024 alone for similar offences within the Eastern Railway zone.