RailEnquiry

Patkar said, "CR has taken an ad-hoc decision without taking stall owners into confidence. I will write to the general manager to reconsider the move."

In the past, when the railway's catering policy was revised, Patkar had protested on behalf of contractors and stall owners, making the board yield to her demands.

This time, Patkar's support for the stall owners has not gone down too well with others. Debi Goenka of Bombay Environmental Action Group (BEAG) said, "Other railways should follow the suit. Instead of opposing, Patkar should request other agencies to emulate the example." Environmentalist Rishi Aggarwal said, "I am surprised with Patkar's stand. The move is in the larger interest of society and environment."

Civic activist Aftab Siddiqui said, "Patkar is worried that the stall operators and those employed there will lose their livelihood. However, the plastic that chokes the drains cause water-logging in areas adjacent to tracks.

These areas are inhabited by slum-dwellers, on whose behalf she has fought many a battles."

Patkar clarified, "The stall owners are self-employed and not businessmen. I agree drains get clogged but CR should ask the manufacturing companies to provide environment-friendly packets," she said.

"The decision does not make sense as the products are available outside the railway station. Commuters will buy these products and continue to throw the wrappings on the tracks."

CR has banned the sale of 25 items as they are packaged in plastic wrappings, laminated plastics, metalized film packets, sulphite paper packing, aluminum foil packets, etc.

However, senior CR officials are wary about taking a tough stand as the contractor's lobby has a significant clout. A section also feels that the ban may be revoked soon as authorities in New Delhi will not support it.

Patkar said only items approved in the 2010 catering policy are sold. "Contractors are charged a hefty licence fee and the ban will make their business a loss-making enterprise."