Mumbai’s Western Railway division has taken a significant stride toward eco-conscious operations with the installation of an advanced Organic Waste Converter (OWC) at the Divisional Railway Manager’s Office Staff Canteen. The initiative underlines the division’s ongoing commitment to sustainable practices and responsible waste management within railway premises, reflecting Indian Railways’ broader green vision.
According to railway officials, the fully automated stainless steel OWC processes wet and kitchen waste generated at the canteen using in-vessel dehydration technology. The machine converts organic waste into compostable biomass suitable for landscaping and gardening within office premises. “The converter not only ensures efficient waste processing but also contributes to creating a greener environment within the railway ecosystem,” an official said. The OWC operates without the need for additives like sawdust or bacteria, offering odour-controlled, zero-emission processing. Its pressure-sealed mechanism eliminates the need for any exhaust or drainage systems. The converter efficiently handles a variety of waste, including kitchen scraps, bakery leftovers, tissues, and garden residues, ensuring hygienic and sustainable disposal.
Officials highlighted that the new system significantly reduces Western Railway’s reliance on external waste collection services, cutting down associated logistical costs and the carbon footprint. This in-house solution represents a step toward greater operational self-sufficiency while supporting environmental sustainability. This initiative aligns with Indian Railways’ long-term sustainability agenda, which focuses on energy efficiency, resource conservation, and zero-net carbon operations. “By integrating this technology, Western Railway is setting a benchmark for eco-conscious practices across the railway network, demonstrating that sustainable development can coexist with operational efficiency,” the official added.
The installation of the OWC at a high-traffic station like Mumbai Central serves as a model for adopting green technologies in urban railway operations. Experts believe that replicating such solutions across stations nationwide could substantially reduce organic waste disposal pressures, promote recycling, and improve the overall environmental footprint of public transportation systems. The Western Railway’s move underscores a commitment to transforming conventional operational practices, embracing innovation while prioritising sustainability. By converting waste into useful biomass, the division exemplifies how urban infrastructure can integrate eco-friendly solutions to achieve a cleaner, greener, and more resilient city ecosystem.
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