Delhi Plans Cloth Banks at Metro Stations to Promote Recycling of Used Garments

  • May 4, 2026, 4:47 p.m.

DELHI: The Delhi government has proposed setting up “cloth banks” at metro stations across the city to facilitate the collection and recycling of used garments, in an initiative aimed at promoting sustainable practices and reducing textile waste. The proposal was announced by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta during the 32nd Foundation Day event of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), highlighting a new social and environmental dimension to public transport infrastructure.

The proposed cloth banks are intended to allow commuters and residents to deposit used clothing at designated points inside metro stations, which can then be recycled, reused, or redistributed. Officials said the initiative seeks to make sustainable clothing practices more accessible to the public, while also addressing the growing challenge of textile waste in urban areas.

According to government representatives, the plan may be implemented in collaboration with women’s self-help groups and local organisations, enabling sorting, recycling, and distribution of collected garments. This approach is expected to generate livelihood opportunities, particularly for women, while ensuring that usable clothes are channelled toward those in need.

The announcement was made during an official event marking the DMRC’s foundation day, where the chief minister described the metro system as a “lifeline of Delhi” and emphasised its role not only in transportation but also in supporting broader social initiatives. The proposal aligns with the government’s focus on integrating sustainability and public participation into urban infrastructure projects.

Officials said the cloth bank initiative is part of a wider push to incorporate environmentally responsible practices into everyday public spaces. Textile waste is a growing concern in Indian cities, with large volumes of discarded clothing often ending up in landfills. By introducing collection points at high-footfall locations such as metro stations, the government aims to create an accessible and structured system for reuse and recycling.

The Delhi Metro network, which spans over 400 kilometres and serves millions of passengers daily, offers a wide-reaching platform for such initiatives. Authorities believe that placing cloth banks within metro premises could significantly increase participation due to the high commuter footfall and ease of access.

The proposal also reflects a broader policy trend of linking public transport systems with sustainability goals. In recent years, urban authorities have increasingly explored ways to use transport hubs for waste management, recycling drives, and public awareness campaigns. The cloth bank initiative is expected to contribute to these efforts by encouraging responsible consumption and disposal practices among citizens.

Officials indicated that further details regarding implementation, including collection mechanisms, partnerships, and operational guidelines, will be finalised after consultations with relevant agencies and stakeholders. The involvement of non-governmental organisations and community groups is likely to play a key role in ensuring effective execution.

The initiative comes alongside other announcements related to metro expansion and infrastructure development in Delhi, reflecting a combined focus on improving connectivity while promoting sustainability and social inclusion. Authorities said integrating such initiatives within existing infrastructure can help maximise impact without requiring significant additional resources.

If implemented, the cloth bank system is expected to reduce textile waste, support recycling efforts, and provide affordable clothing options for underserved communities, while also creating opportunities for community participation in environmental initiatives.

Author : Rajdhani Delhi Representative

Rajdhani delhi representative

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