Ahmedabad-Saharsa Express Gets App-Based Cleanliness Monitoring, Liquid Soap in Non-AC Coaches

Western Railway has introduced upgraded housekeeping services on the Ahmedabad-Saharsa Express from October 16, with scheduled toilet cleaning, liquid soap in non-AC coaches and technology-based monitoring.

The Ahmedabad Division has rolled out the new system on the Ahmedabad-Saharsa Express (19483/19484) to improve toilet hygiene, coach cleanliness and linen distribution during long-distance journeys.

The system uses mobile app-based monitoring, biometric attendance and time-stamped, geo-tagged photographs to verify cleaning work. A control room will oversee operations round the clock.

Toilets to Be Cleaned Every Hour During Peak Periods

Under the revised schedule, staff will clean toilets every hour between 6 am and 9 am, and between 8 pm and 10 pm. During the remaining hours, cleaning will take place every two hours.

Railway authorities have also arranged for regular replenishment of toilet supplies. Liquid soap will be provided in all non-AC coaches, including unreserved compartments, to improve access to handwashing facilities.

Modern Equipment for Coach Cleaning

Housekeeping staff will use high-pressure jets, vacuum cleaners, super-absorbent floor mops, microfibre cloths and upholstery cleaning brushes to clean coaches, toilets, washbasins and other passenger facilities.

The railway has also provided equipment for the systematic collection and disposal of waste.

Staff to Handle Minor Repairs During Journeys

Trained personnel will address common problems such as water leaks, faulty flushing systems and plumbing issues while the train is running. Staff have been equipped with tool kits to carry out minor repairs on board.

They have also received training in the use of fire extinguishers and other safety equipment.

Dedicated Teams for Cleaning and Linen Distribution

Separate personnel will handle housekeeping and linen distribution. Coach attendants, cleaning staff and housekeeping supervisors have received training in hygiene, linen management, general maintenance and safety procedures.

The dedicated teams are expected to improve coordination and ensure more organised delivery of services throughout the journey.

Announcements and Passenger Feedback

Housekeeping activities will be coordinated through the train's public address system and wireless communication devices. Pre-recorded announcements will inform passengers about essential services and support regular waste collection.

A passenger rating and feedback system will also be used to assess service quality and identify areas that need improvement.

Technology to Improve Accountability

The new monitoring system will allow railway authorities to verify cleaning activities through digital records, biometric attendance and photographic evidence. Round-the-clock control room supervision is intended to strengthen oversight of housekeeping operations.

For passengers, the changes are expected to mean cleaner toilets, better access to handwashing facilities in non-AC coaches, more organised linen distribution and quicker attention to minor maintenance problems.