Ministry of Railways Launches “14-Minutes Miracle” Scheme for Vande-Bharat Trains in Swachhata-Hi-Seva Campaign

In a significant development, the Ministry of Railways has taken a giant leap forward to enhance passenger amenities on Vande-Bharat Trains. Renowned for their indigenization and cutting-edge passenger facilities, these trains now introduce the groundbreaking “14-Minutes Miracle” scheme. The scheme is scheduled to be inaugurated on October 1, 2023, at Terminal Stations across the Indian Railways network, as part of the ongoing Swachhata-Hi-Seva campaign. The official launch ceremony will take place at the Delhi Cantt. Railway Station.

Swachhata-Hi-Seva Campaign Aims to Transform India’s Cleanliness Landscape

The “Swachhata-Hi-Seva” campaign, launched on September 15, 2023, and spanning until October 2, 2023, is a collaborative effort by various government ministries, including the Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, and Ministry of Jal Shakti. The campaign aligns with the larger vision of “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan,” initiated by Hon’ble Prime Minister on October 2, 2014. This national movement has cultivated a strong sense of responsibility among citizens, aligning with Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of a ‘Swachh Bharat.’

Indian Railways Takes a Leading Role in Clean India Movement

With its extensive nationwide network, Indian Railways plays a pivotal role in the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. This year’s Swachhata Pakhwada, observed from September 15 to October 2, is geared towards promoting a greener and more eco-friendly railway system. The theme for the Swachhata Hi Sewa campaign 2023 is ‘Garbage Free India.’ Indian Railways has actively embraced the responsibility of promoting environmental sustainability, introducing initiatives such as bio toilets, waste segregation, solid waste management, and discouraging single-use plastics.

Successful Start to the Swachhata Hi Sewa Campaign

The Swachhata Hi Sewa campaign, launched on September 15, 2023, with the administration of the Swachhata Pledge at Rail Bhawan, has seen enthusiastic participation. During the first 15 days of the campaign (September 15 to September 30, 2023), over 2.19 lakh individuals engaged in approximately 2050 activities, accumulating an impressive 685,883 man-hours of effort. These activities included the display of SHS logos and banners on the Railways’ website, public announcements in trains and stations to promote waste disposal awareness, Prabhat Pheris (morning processions) advocating “Swachh Rail Swachh Bharat,” and Nukkad Nataks (street plays) organized in collaboration with NGOs, religious bodies, and schoolchildren at railway stations.

Key Achievements and Commitment to Cleanliness

Some of the remarkable accomplishments during the campaign include the removal of approximately 105 tons of plastic from railway premises, the collection of around 1085 tons of scrap from various railway establishments, and a dedicated drive to clean the areas surrounding railway tracks, resulting in the cleaning of 12,700 track kilometers by Indian Railways.

Massive Cleanliness Drive Planned for October 1, 2023

In honor of Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy, the Ministry of Railways has slated a massive cleanliness drive led by volunteers on October 1, 2023, at 10:00 AM. Over 22,000 events have been scheduled across all Indian Railways stations for this mega cleanliness drive. Dignitaries, celebrities, and social media influencers have been invited to contribute their efforts during this event, which can be tracked on the SHS-2023 portal at www.swachhbharatmission.gov.in.

The Ministry of Railways is committed to creating a cleaner and more sustainable railway system, aligning with the vision of a “Swachh Bharat” and fostering a sense of responsibility and awareness among passengers and citizens alike.