Ananth Rupanagudi, Chief Project Manager, issued a public appeal in January 2026, emphasizing the need for passengers to follow washroom instructions and maintain cleanliness on the semi-high-speed overnight service operating between Kolkata and Guwahati. His remarks came amid growing concerns over passenger behavior despite the train's advanced design and modern amenities.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper has been introduced as a next-generation overnight rail service featuring ergonomic berths, enhanced passenger comfort, and the Kavach safety system. However, complaints emerged shortly after the train's inaugural run, with reports of littered coaches and unflushed toilets raising concerns about onboard hygiene standards.
Videos circulating from the journey showed trash scattered across coaches only hours after the service began operations. The images sparked criticism and renewed debate over civic responsibility, particularly as Indian Railways continues to invest heavily in modern infrastructure and passenger facilities.
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Addressing the issue, Rupanagudi stressed that maintaining cleanliness is a shared responsibility between railway authorities and passengers. He noted that imposing penalties may not be an effective solution inside private coach environments, highlighting the limitations of enforcement measures during long-distance travel.
His comments have intensified calls for broader awareness campaigns aimed at encouraging responsible passenger behavior. Several observers have argued that improvements in civic habits must accompany technological and infrastructure upgrades to ensure the long-term success of premium railway services.
The incident has once again highlighted the gap between world-class transportation infrastructure and public conduct, underscoring the importance of passenger cooperation in preserving the quality, cleanliness, and reputation of India's rapidly modernizing railway network.
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