Bhopal: Now, one-time-use blankets on trains at nominal rates

BHOPAL: In order ensure safety of passengers, Bhopal division is mulling on implementing the scheme of distributing one-time-use blankets and other kits at nominal charges. The scheme is being implemented at a station of Eastern Railway Zone as a pilot project by the Indian Railways. Bhopal division officials said that if the concept succeeds, it will help other zones and divisions to follow suit.
Ever since the Covid pandemic started, Indian Railways have stopped giving reusable sheets, blankets as it could and such others as they could spread infection.Railways had also removed curtains from AC coaches in view of this danger. As per the officials, now, sheets and blankets will be given to the passenger which could be used only once.
According to the concept, Railways has designed four types of disposable linen kits (sheet, blanket, towel set) which are available for Rs 50 to Rs 300. Railways will provide these kits at the platform and also inside the train. Officials said that this arrangement is to be done in all the railway divisions in the latter state.
By doing this, passengers who are willing to have such a kit will be able to buy it during the journey. On completion of the journey, sheets, blankets, towels will be placed in the dustbin available on the platforms.
Before stopping the distribution of the towels, sheets and blankets to the passengers they were used to send for washing and then used it again. Passengers did not have to pay a separate fee for this as it was included in the ticket price.
“As it was summer there was no need to have a blanket. Now rains have started. Passengers traveling in AC during the night would feel cold, so the railway is working on providing a linen kit. This facility may be also available in trains passing through Bhopal Railway Division,” said an official without quoting his name.
PRO, Bhopal Railway division, IA Siddique said, “It is implemented as a pilot project in two different divisions. If it is successful Bhopal division may also start doing the same in the future,” said Siddique.