Directives Issued for Immediate Improvement of Sanitation at Kahalgaon Station Premises
Kahalgaon/Bhagalpur: Under the 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' (Clean India Mission), the railway administration and local municipal authorities have become highly proactive regarding passenger convenience and public health. In line with this, authorities have taken a stern stance regarding the rampant filth and disorder at the Kahalgaon railway station premises. Following deficiencies noted during a recent surprise inspection, senior officials have issued clear directives to the Station Manager and the relevant sanitation in-charges, stating that the face of the station must change within the next 24 to 48 hours.
The Grim Reality Uncovered During Inspection
When a team of administrative officials visited the Kahalgaon station premises on Wednesday, the situation was deeply concerning. Heaps of garbage were found accumulated at the main entrance, the waiting room, and along the edges of platforms one and two. Passengers complained that the condition of the public toilets at the station is pathetic, making it unbearable to even stand nearby due to the foul odor.
During the inspection, it was discovered that dustbins were overflowing and waste was not being collected on time. Filth was also found scattered around the drinking water taps. Taking this seriously, the officials summoned the Station Manager on the spot and issued a stern reprimand.
Strict Orders from Officials: "Passenger Convenience is Paramount"
During the meeting, officials emphasized that a railway station is the face of any city. If there is filth at the entrance itself, what kind of impression will it leave on visitors? The officials issued clear instructions:
Regular Cleaning: Sanitation must be ensured at the station premises at least three times a day.
Toilet Hygiene: A special team should be deployed for the cleaning of toilets, and disinfectants like phenyl must be sprayed every two hours.
Waste Disposal: Dustbins installed for garbage must be emptied on time, and the system of segregating wet and dry waste must be strictly implemented.
Drinking Water Cleanliness: Water stagnation must not be allowed in the area surrounding water coolers and taps on the platforms.
The Plight and Grievances of Passengers
Many passengers present at the station shared their frustrations. A passenger waiting for a train to Kolkata said, "We often see sanitation workers at the station, but in the name of quality, it is just a formality. The condition of the toilets is so bad that women avoid using them."
Another passenger mentioned that garbage thrown by food stalls on the platform often reaches the tracks, which not only increases filth but also mars the aesthetic appeal of the station. Taking note of these complaints, the officials issued a strict warning to shopkeepers to dispose of their waste in dustbins.
New Sanitation Action Plan
The administration has prepared a new action plan for the station's cleanliness, emphasizing better coordination between local bodies and the railway administration.
Monitoring Team: A special monitoring team will be formed to submit a daily morning and evening cleaning report of the station to higher officials.
Punitive Action: If filth is found again during future inspections, heavy fines will be imposed on the concerned contractor, and the process of cancelling their contract will be initiated.
Awareness Campaign: Posters promoting 'Swachhata Hi Seva' (Cleanliness is Service) will be put up throughout the premises, and appeals will be made via loudspeakers for passengers to cooperate in keeping the station clean.
Administration's Warning: No Laxity Will Be Tolerated
Officials made it clear that this is not just a one-time instruction but should be viewed as a continuous process. They stated, "Our goal is to include Kahalgaon station in the list of the cleanest stations in the district. No officer or employee found negligent in this regard will be spared."
They have also urged local public representatives to visit the station periodically and contribute to monitoring the sanitation work.
A Ray of Hope
Following these swift and strict measures by the administration, there is a renewed sense of activity on the station premises. Sanitation workers have been deployed with full diligence. Passengers now have hope that in the coming days, they will see a clean and hygienic station.
Cleanliness is not just a government scheme but a necessity for public health. The seriousness shown towards Kahalgaon station will certainly yield positive results. It now remains to be seen how effectively and for how long these administrative directives are implemented on the ground.
