Railway officials have started strict action against spitting and littering at Bandra railway station. This action comes amid the ongoing Bandra Station Mahotsav, which started on July 5. Bandra station is a Grade I heritage structure, built in 1888.
During a regular visit, officials noticed fresh paan stains on newly cleaned walls. This was despite the station being decorated for the festival with cultural shows and exhibitions.
In response, senior Western Railway officials asked for strict enforcement of cleanliness. Now, ticket inspectors will fine INR 500 to anyone found spitting or littering. A special receipt book has been given to them for this purpose. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has been instructed to act against violators.
This fine was increased from INR 200 to INR 500 in February. Between April 2024 and January 2025, more than 2,300 people were fined for spitting and littering. Almost INR 6 lakh was collected in fines during this period.
The decision to restart strict enforcement was confirmed during the DRUCC meeting on July 10. Passenger representatives raised issues like train delays, beggars, loiterers, and poor hygiene. The Commercial Department is also collecting more data to study people’s behaviour and improve action.
Sources said Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Pankaj Singh visited Bandra station himself. He was not happy with the station’s condition. This was reportedly attributed to contractors hiring fewer staff to save money.
Officials also said that it is hard to keep the station clean because people litter carelessly. As per sources, authorities had asked railway officials to take strict action against those who dirty public places. They also suggested adding more CCTV cameras inside trains to stop such acts.
Bandra station is celebrating the Bandra Station Mahotsav. The festival began on July 5 with African drummers performing. It includes contests and exhibitions that show the station’s history and its link with the local community.