Indian Railways, the backbone of the nation’s transportation system, is facing a persistent and costly challenge: gutkha stains. Every year, approximately ₹1,200 crore is spent solely on cleaning gutkha stains from trains, platforms, and station premises—a sum that rivals the cost of manufacturing an entire fleet of modern trains like the Vande Bharat Express. This staggering expenditure not only drains valuable resources but also reflects deeper issues of civic sense, public health, and accountability.
Gutkha, a form of chewing tobacco mixed with areca nut and flavoring agents, is widely consumed across India. Unfortunately, many users habitually spit the red residue in public spaces, especially on railway property. Over time, these stains become stubborn, unsightly, and unhygienic, leading to both aesthetic and health concerns.
Despite the implementation of the Swachh Bharat initiative and periodic cleanliness drives, the issue persists due to a lack of behavioral change among commuters. The stains not only mar the appearance of railway stations and trains but also pose a risk of spreading diseases, especially during the monsoon season when spit mixes with rainwater.
The ₹1,200 crore spent annually on cleaning gutkha stains could be redirected towards much-needed improvements in railway infrastructure, passenger amenities, or safety upgrades. For perspective, this amount is nearly the cost of manufacturing ten Vande Bharat trains, highlighting the scale of the problem.
Beyond the financial burden, the stains symbolize a disregard for public property and a lack of civic responsibility. Many argue that if the same individuals were abroad, they would never behave similarly in public spaces, raising questions about societal attitudes towards shared infrastructure.
The annual expenditure of ₹1,200 crore on cleaning gutkha stains is a wake-up call for both authorities and the public. It is a preventable drain on resources that should be directed towards nation-building, not cleaning up after irresponsible behavior. A cleaner railway system is not just about aesthetics—it is a reflection of collective civic pride, respect for public property, and a commitment to a healthier, more responsible India.
