Did you know Indian Railways wool blankets are washed only once a month? Study reveals

Research on Indian Railways has highlighted concerns about the hygiene and sanitation of one of the world's largest transportation networks. Lakhs of passengers use Indian Railways daily, and any breach in cleanliness might be a major concern.

In an RTI response to The New Indian Express, the Ministry of Railways stated that the linen provided to passengers is washed after each use, but the wool blankets are to be laundered "at least once a month, preferably twice a month, subject to available capacity and logistics arrangements".

What did the study highlight?

According to the study, housekeeping staff confirms that blankets are washed only when they become discoloured or stinky. Rishu Gupta, the Ministry of Railways' section officer for Environment and Housekeeping Management (EnHM), filed the reply.

Unclean blankets, especially when shared by a group of persons with health issues, can serve as an excellent medium for disease transmission.

One of the biggest concerns linked with dirty wool blankets is the buildup of allergens and irritants. Wool fibres can trap dust mites and mould, providing an excellent environment for allergens to develop.

When you use a soiled blanket, these particles can become airborne and cause allergy symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and skin rashes. Individuals with asthma or respiratory disorders may have worsening symptoms, making it harder to breathe comfortably.

How can unwashed blankets affect the users?

Wool is already a coarse substance, and when it is not cleaned properly, it can irritate sensitive skin. People with pre-existing skin disorders, such as eczema, may discover that exposure to contaminated clothing exacerbates their symptoms, resulting in discomfort and the need for more rigorous skincare.

Unclean wool blankets can also serve as breeding grounds for germs and fungi. If the blanket is not washed regularly, sweat, body oils, and food particles can accumulate, providing feed to germs.

Bacterial growth can cause skin infections, whilst mould can aggravate respiratory troubles and contribute to several health concerns such as headaches, exhaustion, and cognitive difficulties.

People with compromised immune systems, such as the elderly or those with chronic illnesses, are more exposed to these dangers.

The Indian Railways has sent various responses to the RTI request.

How did people on the internet react?

"Nothing surprising to be honest.... Trains carry thousands of passengers daily and amongst them hundreds travel in AC coaches. If railway starts washing sheets and blankets after each passenger has used them, it's water and detergent bills will skyrocket. This is why if I'm doing an overnight journey, I always carry a single bedsheet and a blanket for myself.," one user adds on Reddit.

Comment
byu/DEvilAnimeGuy from discussion
inunitedstatesofindia

"You're not supposed to use the blanket directly, anyway. Use one of the white linen sheets to cover the bunk, then cover yourself with the other white sheet before putting on the blanket. I assumed it was common knowledge," writes another.

Comment
byu/DEvilAnimeGuy from discussion
inunitedstatesofindia

Here's what some other people wrote.

Comment
byu/DEvilAnimeGuy from discussion
inunitedstatesofindia

Comment
byu/DEvilAnimeGuy from discussion
inunitedstatesofindia

Users on X also had strong reactions upon learning this. Here's what they said.

Bring Your Own Blanket(BYOB)

¡ª Manas Muduli?? (@manas_muduli) October 22, 2024

This is disgusting, Reel minister should focus on Hygiene atleast

¡ª Veena Jain (@DrJain21) October 22, 2024

That¡¯s is a scare because it can lead to massive viral infection. This is very scary and how is this even allowed.

¡ª Raghuveer (@Straying_mind) October 22, 2024

What to do when travelling in trains to make sure you are keeping it clean?

1. Carry your own blankets.

2. Carry a sleeping bag.

3. Carry additional sheets to layer the blanket with it.

4. Carry a sanitiser to wipe the seat clean before sitting on it.

5. Carry an inflatable pillow or a neck pillow to avoid using the pillow.

Also read: Indian Railway Passenger Gets Angry Over ¡®Halal-Certified Tea;' What Is Halal Certification?

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