The Reuse–Refurbish–Rebuild Model in Action

Prayagraj, 20 Aug (HS): As part of the ongoing efforts to

provide clean and improved passenger amenities at railway stations, the Coach

Mid-Life Rehabilitation (CMLR) Workshop, Jhansi has undertaken an innovative

in-house initiative. The technical staff of the workshop has developed and

installed modular bio-toilets at Matatila, Jiron, Jakhora stations of Lalitpur

Distrcis and Basai station of Datia district, which are categorized as NSG-6

stations.

The key feature of this initiative is the effective

utilization of useful and reusable components recovered from coaches during

Periodic Overhauling (POH). These components include Fiber-Reinforced Plastic

(FRP) lavatory modules, bio-tanks, water tanks and other reusable coach

accessories.

Instead of treating these components as scrap, they were

inspected, cleaned, repaired and refurbished, wherever required, before being

put to further use. Thus, the initiative represents an effective step towards

the optimum utilization of existing railway resources and promotes the concept

of ‘Waste to Wealth’.

The entire process of developing and installing the modular

bio-toilets was undertaken through the in-house manpower of the CMLR Workshop.

The activities included inspection of FRP lavatory modules, bio-tanks and water

tanks; necessary repair and refurbishment; fabrication of supporting

structures; assembly of modular toilet units; and provision of water, sanitary,

plumbing and drainage connections.

The initiative has reduced dependence on new materials while

making effective use of available resources and the technical capabilities of

the workshop. The utilization of reusable coach components, in-house manpower

and workshop fabrication facilities has enabled the development of useful

passenger amenities at a lower cost.

Matatila, Basai, Jakhora and Jiron are NSG-6 category

stations catering to passengers from nearby rural and local areas. The

availability of clean and convenient toilet facilities at such stations is

particularly important for passengers, including women, children, senior

citizens and Divyangjan. The modular bio-toilets provide passengers with

improved and easily accessible sanitation facilities within the station

premises.

The initiative exemplifies the ‘Reuse–Refurbish–Rebuild’

approach by developing useful passenger amenities at lower cost through the

optimum utilization of available resources. It also promotes an environmentally

friendly and resource-efficient solution while reflecting the technical

expertise, innovation and commitment of the CMLR Workshop, Jhansi towards developing

practical solutions in response to passenger needs.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi