Vande Bharat Trains to Get Enhanced Cleaning Services: Railway Ministry Seeks Cost Estimates

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New Delhi: In a bid to provide a cleaner and more comfortable travel experience for passengers, the Railway Ministry has asked the Northern and East Central Zones to assess the cost implications of deploying adequate housekeeping staff on Vande Bharat trains. The move comes after the zones requested a standardized deployment policy for On-Board Housekeeping Services staff to maintain high service standards on these trains. The ministry, in a letter dated November 20, 2025, sought details on the financial implications of the proposal, along with information on the current housekeeping facilities in Vande Bharat trains and other similar trains like Rajdhani Express and Shatabdi. The zones have been asked to respond by November 25, 2025, to facilitate further processing of the proposal. The initiative aims to maintain the high standards of cleanliness and passenger satisfaction that Vande Bharat trains are known for. The trains, operated by Indian Railways, offer comfort and high service standards to passengers, making the role of On-Board Housekeeping Services staff crucial in maintaining these standards. Northern Railway has proposed a yardstick of one On-Board Housekeeping Services staff per two coaches for both chair car and sleeper variants of Vande Bharat trains, along with one linen attendant per coach for the sleeper variant and one executive housekeeping staff member per train. This standardization will ensure consistency in service levels, optimize resource deployment, and reinforce Indian Railways' commitment to providing a clean and comfortable travel environment. The East Central Railway Zone, which operates Vande Bharat, Namo Bharat, and Amrit Bharat trains, has also emphasized the need for dedicated staff to ensure interior cleaning, collection of leftover items, and disposal of garbage at regular intervals. The zone has proposed a different deployment policy for each train type, taking into account their unique requirements and extensive utilization. The Railway Ministry's move is a step towards enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers on Vande Bharat trains. By deploying adequate housekeeping staff, Indian Railways aims to maintain its commitment to providing high-quality services and ensuring a clean and comfortable journey for its passengers.