North Western Railway Launches First Water Recycling Plant at Barmer railway station.

In a step towards water conservation and sustainable resource management, North Western Railway on recently commissioned its first Water Recycling Plant at Barmer railway station. The facility was inaugurated by General Manager Amitabh during his one-day visit to Barmer.

The plant, built at an estimated cost of ₹2.57 crore, is located in the station’s washing line area and is designed to recycle water used in washing railway linen such as bedsheets, pillow covers, towels, and other onboard textiles. Instead of being discharged as wastewater, the used water will now undergo treatment and be reused for subsequent washing cycles, significantly reducing freshwater consumption.

Speaking at the inauguration, the general manager said the project represents an important step towards water conservation and sustainable development. He added that, given its success and utility, similar water recycling plants are likely to be proposed across other divisions of the North Western Railway in the future.

Officials said the system collects wastewater from linen washing and subjects it to a multi-stage treatment process that removes soap residue, dirt, and solid particles. The water then undergoes chemical and biological treatment, followed by filtration and disinfection before being reused, creating a closed-loop system.

Railway authorities highlighted that the project will help reduce dependence on freshwater sources, cut wastewater pollution, and lower operational costs. The initiative is expected to be especially beneficial in western Rajasthan, a region frequently affected by water scarcity and drought-like conditions.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior railway officials, including Jodhpur Divisional Railway Manager Anurag Tripathi and other departmental heads. Following the event, the general manager also inspected ongoing redevelopment works at Barmer railway station and reviewed modernisation progress, stressing the need to maintain high cleanliness standards and improve passenger amenities.

The commissioning of the plant marks a key milestone in the sustainability efforts of the North Western Railway, reflecting its focus on responsible resource use and long-term water security in the region.