India has been on a national lockdown since the end of March, and billions of people are confined to their homes.  Indian Railways, which is India’s national railway system, has closed down for the first time in 167 years due to the effects of Covid-19. With a significant decrease in freight and passengers needing to travel, Indian Railways have found a unique way to fight the pandemic. 

2,500 coaches have been transformed into isolation wards, housing 40,000 beds to help treat patients who are sick. With a goal of reaching 5,000 coaches, Indian Railways will be prepared to assist hospitals in the case of a large-scale outbreak. 

This is an amazing initiative by Indian Railways, who have been a staple part of India’s livelihood since the early 1800’s.