Green Tracks: Barmer Station’s New ₹2.57 Cr Water Recycling Plant

In a significant step toward sustainable water management and resource conservation, North Western Railway has commissioned its first Water Recycling Plant at Barmer railway station in Rajasthan. The facility was inaugurated by General Manager Amitabh during his visit to the station.

Developed at a cost of approximately ₹2.57 crore, the plant has been installed in the station’s washing line area and is designed to recycle water used for cleaning railway linen, including bedsheets, pillow covers, towels, and other onboard textiles. The treated water will be reused for future washing cycles, reducing the station’s dependence on freshwater resources.

Speaking at the inauguration, Amitabh described the project as an important milestone in North Western Railway’s sustainability initiatives, highlighting its contribution to water conservation and environmentally responsible operations. He noted that similar facilities could be considered for deployment across other divisions of the railway network based on the plant’s performance and benefits.

The recycling system employs a multi-stage treatment process that removes dirt, detergent residues, and suspended particles from wastewater. This is followed by chemical and biological treatment, filtration, and disinfection, enabling the water to be safely reused within a closed-loop system.

According to railway officials, the project is expected to lower freshwater consumption, reduce wastewater discharge, and improve operational efficiency. The initiative is particularly relevant for western Rajasthan, where water scarcity remains a persistent challenge.

During the visit, the General Manager also reviewed ongoing redevelopment and modernization works at Barmer railway station, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards of cleanliness and enhancing passenger amenities. Senior railway officials, including Jodhpur Divisional Railway Manager Anurag Tripathi and departmental heads, were present at the inauguration.

The commissioning of the Water Recycling Plant underscores North Western Railway’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure development and long-term water security, while supporting environmentally conscious operations across its network.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.