Indian Railways Enhances Linen Quality and Hygiene for AC Passengers

Chirag Gupta

Hajipur: Indian Railways has introduced significant upgrades to ensure the cleanliness and quality of linen provided to AC passengers. Every day, over 6 lakh linen sets—including two bedsheets, a pillow cover, a pillow, a towel, and a blanket—are provided to passengers, including those travelling with RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) bookings.

To improve quality, the Railways are procuring linen according to advanced Bureau of Indian Standards specifications. Mechanised laundries have been established across all zones to guarantee consistent cleaning, using branded chemicals and proper monitoring via CCTV and railway staff. Bedsheets, pillow covers, and towels are washed after every use, while blankets are cleaned within 15 days, except in areas with challenging logistics, where this period may extend to 20–30 days.

The cleaning schedule for blankets was initially set at three months but was reduced to two months in 2010 and further cut to 15 days in 2016. The temperature in AC coaches is maintained around 24 degrees Celsius, minimising the need for blankets, as bedsheets are generally sufficient for most passengers. Additionally, passengers receive two bedsheets—one for the berth and the other for covering the blanket.

East Central Railway operates advanced mechanised laundries in Danapur (8 tonnes/day), Barauni (6 tonnes/day), Samastipur (2 tonnes/day), Saharsa (2 tonnes/day), and Darbhanga (4 tonnes/day). Additional laundries with a capacity of 2 tonnes/day are being set up in Raxaul and Jaynagar. Cleaning contracts have also been awarded to private firms to maintain high hygiene standards.

Indian Railways continues to prioritise passenger comfort and cleanliness, ensuring top-tier hygiene and quality in every aspect of travel.