Mumbai: Western Railway (WR) is expanding the use of specialised anti-stain nano-coating at busy suburban railway stations as part of efforts to tackle persistent paan and gutkha stains and improve cleanliness across station premises.

The initiative follows a pilot project at Matunga Road station, where German nano-technology-based coating was applied to walls and other surfaces. Following the pilot, the coating has also been introduced at Dadar and Mumbai Central stations, while Khar station has been identified for the next phase.

The move comes amid continued concerns over passengers spitting at railway stations. According to Western Railway data cited in the report, 12,265 cases of spitting were recorded across 34 stations between April and July 2026, with fines amounting to approximately ₹27.18 lakh.

The nano-coating is designed to create a protective layer over surfaces, helping prevent paan and gutkha stains, paint and dirt from penetrating deeply. Railway officials said the technology could make cleaning faster and easier by reducing the time required to remove stubborn stains.

During the Matunga Road pilot, the coating was reportedly applied over approximately 3,700 square feet across eight locations, including walls, pillars, ceilings, elevators and metal surfaces. The project reportedly cost around ₹5 lakh.

According to railway officials, conventional measures such as regular cleaning, awareness campaigns and penalties have not been sufficient to completely address the problem. Cleaning staff often have to use chemicals and spend considerable time removing stains from station surfaces.

The coating, marketed under names such as Wallgard and Metalgard, is also designed to provide protection against rust, weather conditions and everyday wear and tear. Officials expect the protective layer to remain effective for several years, subject to performance and maintenance conditions.

Western Railway is monitoring the performance of the technology before extending it to additional stations. With high-footfall stations such as Khar being considered for the next phase, the initiative is aimed at reducing maintenance efforts and improving cleanliness across railway premises for Mumbai commuters.