South East Central Railway (SECR) observed World Environment Day with a theme, ‘Seven billion dreams, one planet, consume with care’, at the Railway North East Institute here. Divisional Commissioner Sonmoni Borah was the chief guest while vice-chancellor of Bilaspur University Gauri Dutt Sharma and member of Railway Board Gopal Dalmiya were special guests. The function was presided over by Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Devraj Panda.
Addressing the gathering, Sonmoni Borah appreciated Railway’s effort in maintaining ecological balance. Due to green cushion in Railway settlement many people from city areas come here for fresh air and peace. He said that it was necessary to change our habits starting from food and dress. The commissioner said that Railways have great contribution towards environment and is still doing a lot to maintain ecological balance. Besides electric locomotives and bio-toilets Railways is also looking forward to use solar power in the stations and compartments.
He stressed to bring more proficiency in freight movement along with efficiency in fuel consumption. Railways may also tie-up with the local bodies for waste management on a win-win basis. like the airlines, Railways may also welcome children in train to bring awareness among them towards environment to save our future generation, he added.
Borah said that according to data about 99.6 per cent of the fuel is consumed by transportation and the carbon monoxide emitted through the vehicles have posed threat to human life. He said that it was necessary for enforcement of law to maintain the environment. The function was also addressed by DRM Devraj Panda, Gauri Dutt Sharma, Gopal Dalmiya Commissioner of Bilaspur Municipal Corporation Ranu Sahu and Senior Deputy General Manager Rajiv Choudhary.