The Delhi government has announced a new initiative to promote textile recycling and reuse by installing collection boxes for old clothes. The programme will be implemented in collaboration with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) as part of broader efforts to address growing textile waste and encourage sustainable consumption practices, as per an announcement by the Chief Minister of Delhi, Rekha Gupta. 

Speaking at the 32nd Foundation Day of the Delhi Metro, she informed that dedicated collection boxes will be installed at 10 major metro stations, allowing commuters to deposit garments they no longer use. The collected material will then be channelled towards reuse, upcycling, and recycling applications. 

Gupta said the initiative seeks to support environmental conservation while strengthening circular economy practices in the city. She noted that textile waste is emerging as a growing environmental concern and highlighted the need for scientific recycling systems for discarded garments. 

Based on internal reviews, the stations identified for the initiative include Shahdara, Mohan Estate, Rohini West, Lajpat Nagar, Malviya Nagar, Mayur Vihar Phase-I, Hauz Khas, Punjabi Bagh West, Dwarka, and Shalimar Bagh. 

Under the programme, collected garments will be segregated into different categories and supplied to non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and self-help groups (SHGs) for reuse and upcycling. Products such as bags, rugs, and other utility items are expected to be developed from reusable textile material. Remaining fabric waste will be sent to recycling units for conversion into yarn, fibre, and non-woven felt products. 
The initiative also aims to create greater public participation in textile recycling and improve awareness around clothing reuse and circularity. Reports indicate that designated spaces may also be allocated at selected metro stations for the display and sale of products created through upcycling activities. 

India generates around 70.73 lakh tonnes of textile waste annually, highlighting the rising need for stronger recycling systems and circular production practices in the country’s textile industry, according to the findings of a new report titled “Mapping of Textile Waste Value Chain in India”, released by Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh earlier this year.