In a signficant move towards a make India plastic-free, tea will now be sold in environment-friendly ‘Kulhads’ (earthen cups) in place of plastic cups at all railway stations across India. The initiative will be the contribution of the Railways towards a plastic-free India.
Union railway minister Piyush Goyal on Sunday said that nearly 400 railway stations are serving tea in ‘Kulhads’ and added efforts are ongoing to implement the same across the country as railways’ contribution in making India plastic-free.
“There are nearly 400 railway stations serving tea in Kulhad (earthen cups). We are making efforts to implement the same across the country as part of the Indian railways contribution in making India plastic-free. It’ll also generate employment,” Goyal said after inaugurating the newly electrified Dhigawara-Bandikui section of North Western Railway in Alwar.
He said that no railway line in Rajasthan was electrified between 2009 and 2014 and added that 1,433 km railway track was electrified in the state between 2014 and 2020.
Goyal also flagged off the first train on this newly electrified route at the function organized at Dhigawara station at an event, which was also attended by several public representatives and senior railway officials.
Piyush Goyal also said that electrification of railway lines across the country will save the environment as engines will run on electricity produced in the country, saving fuel, money and time. Also, the speed of trains will also be increased, he said.
“This will also help farmers who will be able to take their crops to any part of the country (through rail freight transport) in less time,” he said.
Flagging off the first train on the newly electrified 34 km-long Dhigawara-Bandikui rail section, Piyush Goyal said that after the entire line from Rewari to Ajmer has now been electrified with the electrification of this stretch.
What is Kulhad
Kulhad or kulhar has been traditionally used as a cup for various delicacies like Malaiyyo or Nimish, Masala Chai, Mishti Doi (curd), etc. It is known to give an earthy essence, flavour and fragrance to the tea. To provide tea, lassi, and other food items to the passengers, kulhads, glasses, and bowls made of clay will be used. Using a kulhad is extremely cost-effective since it is cheaper than glass or plastic. Kulhads cannot be reused. They are also inherently hygienic, considering they are made by firing kiln.
