In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, spitoons kept public places clean. The Railways has come up with something similar — spit pouches and containers, priced at Rs 10 and Rs 20 respectively, to keep stations clean. Available at Nagpur station from Friday, officials say if there is good response, it could be used in Mumbai.

Explaining the purpose, Nagpur's senior divisional commercial manager Krishnath Patil said, "We are determined to keep stations clean, and while general litter and garbage can be taken care of, spitting has been a major challenge. A pouch can be used multiple times during the journey. This pouch will prove to be a boon in these times of the COVID-19 pandemic."