Kochi

The Kerala High Court has criticized Indian Railways for the garbage found alongside its tracks and ordered the organization to ensure proper disposal of waste. During a hearing prompted by a fire near Brahmapuram, the court also addressed the management of gypsum produced by Fertilizers & Chemicals Travancore Limited (FACT). The court emphasized that Railways must prevent waste dumping on tracks. It noted that while garbage near railway stations is managed, little effort is made to clear waste from track sides, largely due to inadequate bins in train compartments. The court highlighted that waste dumped on tracks pollutes water bodies and harms the environment. Addressing both issues, the court directed Indian Railways to submit an affidavit detailing efforts to clear plastic waste from tracks. It also suggested exploring whether FACT’s gypsum could be utilized in road construction, urging collaboration with the National Highway Authority of India. Further hearings on these matters are scheduled for July 26.