Railways divisions launch Environment Day events with rallies

Madurai/Trichy: Madurai and Trichy railway divisions kicked off the nationwide three-week-long World Environment Day Campaign – 2026 that is being organised from May 15 to June 5, with the theme "Climate Change and Challenges Posed to Mother Earth."In Madurai, the campaign commenced on Friday with the administration of the environmental pledge to officers and staff at the divisional railway manager's office by Omprakash Meena, the DRM. In Trichy, the day marked with an environment awareness rally at Trichy Junction railway station. Balak Ram Negi, DRM, Trichy division, formally flagged off the rally from platform 1, which proceeded up to platform 5. Trainees of the Multi-Disciplinary Zonal Training Institute (MDZTI) actively participated in the rally, distributing pamphlets to passengers on the platforms, travellers in Jan Shatabdi Express and Cholan Express, and other railway users.The campaign will focus on climate change mitigation, cleanliness and waste management, reduction of single-use plastic, adoption of sustainable practices, promotion of green and sustainable railway operations, tree plantation activities, water and energy conservation, and various awareness drives involving the railway staff, passengers, the general public, Scouts/NCC, social groups, public influencers and dignitaries during the campaign period.Considering the summer heat and the struggle that rail users face, the Tamil Nadu Chamber of Commerce and Industry also started to provide buttermilk to the passengers at Madurai Junction. They will provide 500 litres of buttermilk to the passengers daily till the end of summer season.Trichy division will also conduct tree plantation drives, awareness programmes on waste management and pollution control, rainwater harvesting promotion, plastic reduction campaigns, encouragement of digital ticketing, paperless travel, and efficient electricity usage. The initiative aims to foster eco-friendly habits among passengers, railway staff, and the general public, contributing to a cleaner and greener environment.