August 7, 2025: In a major stride towards cleaner and more sustainable rail travel, Indian Railways has successfully fitted bio-toilets in all passenger-carrying mainline coaches. This development, aligned with the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan initiative, signifies a crucial shift in railway sanitation infrastructure, replacing traditional systems with eco-friendly solutions.
The bio-toilets, developed in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), utilise anaerobic bacteria to break down human waste into water, methane, and carbon dioxide. This not only eliminates waste discharge onto the tracks but also reduces corrosion and maintenance costs. Reports suggest a 90% reduction in human waste on railway lines, leading to improved hygiene and operational safety.
The transformation has been rapid and wide-reaching. From just 9,587 coaches equipped with bio-toilets in 2014, the number soared to over 3.33 lakh by March 2025—a 34-fold increase. This expansion has significantly improved passenger experience by eliminating foul odours and enhancing cleanliness.
Mumbai has played a central role in the rollout and testing of this technology, emerging as a leading hub for sustainable sanitation innovation within the Indian Railways. Awareness drives under the Swachh Bharat mission continue to educate passengers on the correct use of bio-toilets, aiming to curb misuse and prevent blockages caused by non-biodegradable waste.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. Frequent clogging has prompted Indian Railways to trial vacuum toilets—water-efficient and less prone to jamming—in select premium trains. Mumbai’s success sets an example for other regions, showcasing the feasibility of large-scale, eco-conscious sanitation solutions. As Indian Railways accelerates its green agenda, the bio-toilet initiative not only transforms travel hygiene but also advances the country’s ambition to build cleaner, more sustainable urban futures.
Source: Urban Acres
