In a bid to improve the cleanliness and sanitation levels in toilet and bathroom blocks at railway stations, the Central Railways has decided to rope in professional services for its maintenance. The Central Railways has invited bids for licence for operation and maintenance of toilets and bathroom on pay-and-use basis in for a period of five years.
Speaking to Clean India Journal, R K Adhyapak, Commercial Clerk, DRM Office, Solapur, said “We are looking at maintaining toilets blocks and bathrooms at stations, including, Wadi, Shahabad, Gulbarga, Solapur, Daund, Kurduwadi, Pandharpur, Kopergaon and Belapur besides maintaining waiting halls at Pandharpur and circulatory area at Gulbarga.”
In Category A and B stations the toilet and bathroom blocks for ladies, gents and physically handicapped will have round the clock attendants on block basis. The contractor undertaking the maintenance will also provide disinfectants and cleaning chemicals. The need for more streamlined and professional approach for maintenance of toilet blocks has led to the floating of contracts that were earlier handled by self-help groups, Adhyapak said.