The South Western Railway (SWR) has taken a series of steps towards sustainability along its network in Karnataka, aiming to enhance the green footprint, optimise energy consumption and enhance the comforts provided to passengers, stated officials.

According to the General Manager of SWR, the rail operator is implementing a number of eco-friendly initiatives like water saving measures, waste management initiatives, and energy-saving schemes in selected major stations and other facilities in the region. The idea is to reduce the impact of the railway company on the environment as well as improve its services to the locals.

Rainwater harvesting has been proposed to be installed in major stations so as to replenish groundwater and cut down on reliance on water from other sources. That is just one way in which the railway company hopes to save water resources in a region that might go through fluctuations, according to the officials.

Solid waste management is another important area and efforts are being undertaken towards separating waste at the point of generation, promoting recycling and improving disposal systems for both biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste. Waste segregation among other measures is being promoted by station teams through campaigns.

Energy efficiency continues to be a critical concern of SWR's sustainability program. The railway has begun installing LED lights, energy-efficient fans and solar panels in some areas to reduce electricity consumption and save on operating expenses. Such programs are consistent with the nation's overall objectives in renewable energy and carbon reduction, officials said.

Furthermore, landscaping works such as planting trees and developing green areas around station facilities are underway for aesthetic and environmental improvement of local air quality. Responsible behaviours campaigns for passengers have been put into place to further embed sustainability practices in day-to-day operations.

The General Manager reiterated that SWR’s pursuit of these programmes is a long-term initiative towards embedding environmental responsibility into the way SWR does its work, thus making the SWR network cleaner, greener and more sustainable for future generations.