The administration has adopted a highly stringent approach to preserve the cleanliness and traditional aesthetic of Mandalgarh railway station, which stands as the premier heritage railway station in the Bhilwara district of Rajasthan. In an effort to maintain the beauty of the station and the surrounding railway premises, the authorities have initiated strict measures. Those caught littering, spitting, or creating unhygienic conditions on the platforms, inside trains, or within the broader railway area will face immediate penalties. Under the revised guidelines, individuals found violating cleanliness protocols will have to pay a heavy spot fine on the spot, as the railway administration has increased the penalty amounts to enforce discipline.
Administratively, Bhilwara district features a distinct setup. While most railway stations in the Bhilwara district fall under the administrative control of the Ajmer Railway Division, Mandalgarh is the only railway station in the district that operates under the jurisdiction of the Kota Railway Division. Consequently, special efforts are being made by the Kota division to ensure the upkeep and modernization of this historical station, which recently underwent a major face-lift.
New Rules and Escalation of Penalties
Providing details about these updated regulations, Saurabh Jain, the Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (Kota), stated that the Ministry of Railways has officially amended the Indian Railways cleanliness rules. These modified rules have come into force immediately following their publication in the official gazette. Under the updated legal framework, littering, spitting, or disposing of waste on platforms, railway tracks, waiting rooms, or any other railway-owned property will be treated as a punishable offence. Violators will be subjected to an immediate spot fine of Rs 1,000 by railway authorities.
Furthermore, activities such as unauthorized cooking, bathing, washing utensils, laundering clothes, or washing private vehicles within the railway premises are strictly prohibited. Any action that defaces or damages railway property will also invite similar financial penalties from the checking squads.
Legal Consequences for Non-Compliance
According to Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Saurabh Jain, if an offender refuses to pay the designated Rs 1,000 spot fine on the premises, the railway administration will escalate the matter legally. The non-compliant individual will be produced before a competent court of law. In such cases, the court has the authority to double the penalty, imposing a fine of up to Rs 2,000 on the offender. Maintaining the neatness of an essential station like Mandalgarh is a shared civic duty.
The railway authorities have urged passengers, visitors, and local residents not to throw garbage on platforms, footover bridges, or inside train compartments. Passengers are advised to always use the designated dustbins. The administration believes that clean stations and trains can only be realized through active public cooperation and strict adherence to these regulatory standards.
Heritage Transformation under the Amrit Bharat Scheme
The significance of Mandalgarh railway station is underscored by its inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi under the central government's Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. Mandalgarh was among the 103 railway stations nationwide chosen for redevelopment under this scheme. The station was systematically upgraded at an estimated cost of Rs 4.74 crore, ensuring a seamless blend of top-class modern amenities and classic heritage architecture.
As part of the modernization project, a brand-new platform cover shed measuring 15.50 by 10 meters was installed. A highly spacious ticket booking hall has been built alongside a modern, comfortable waiting room. To ensure inclusivity, special ramps and sturdy railings have been constructed to facilitate smooth movement for Divyangjan (differently-abled passengers). Outside the station, parking facilities have been reorganized, and the entry and exit roads have been widened. To enhance the visual appeal, a traditional stone canopy (chhatri), an ornamental fountain, and a beautifully landscaped green area featuring a majestic selfie point have been developed for visitors.
