Train News: Major action regarding water at railway stations; strict rules implemented

Railway Water Quality: If you travel by train and drink water at railway stations, this news is relevant to you. Inspections have revealed several shortcomings regarding the water quality at these stations. Read on to find out more.

Indian Railway Water Quality Report: Travelers often drink water from dispensers at railway stations or fill their bottles to carry along for the journey. Concerns regarding water quality at railway stations have been raised frequently, as consuming poor-quality water can adversely affect passengers’ health.

In light of this, the quality of drinking water at railway stations was inspected. After several deficiencies came to light, the Railways decided to take necessary steps to improve the water supply system.

How many stations were inspected?

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) inspected 512 non-suburban railway stations across the country. The objective was to assess water quality and determine whether adequate attention was being paid to cleanliness and hygiene.

What did the inspection reveal?

The inspection found that water quality was substandard and that essential station amenities were being neglected. Shockingly, water samples collected from several stations revealed alarming results.

CAG advises strict adherence to regulations

Following the inspection, the CAG advised the Railways to strictly adhere to regulations regarding water supply and testing.
It also recommended periodic water testing.
Additionally, water tanks are to be cleaned.
Water quality will also be monitored.

Stations inspected

Lonavala
Coimbatore
Bhiwandi Road
Hyderabad
Kalyan
Palakkad Junction
Madhupur Station
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus

E. coli bacteria were detected at these locations. Samples collected from platform taps also tested positive for coliform bacteria.

Directives issued to address water-related issues

Following the release of the CAG report, the Railways immediately issued necessary directives. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has ordered the strengthening of the water supply system—spanning from storage tanks to taps—at approximately 20,000 locations.

Deficiencies found beyond just water issues

The inspection revealed not only water-related problems but also a range of other shortcomings, such as:

Deficiencies regarding urinals were identified at 403 stations.
A lack of adequate washroom facilities was noted at 201 stations.
Issues concerning drinking water taps were found at 2,035 stations.

File an immediate complaint if water quality at the station is poor

If you encounter poor-quality water at a station, you can immediately call the Railway helpline number, 139.
You can also lodge a complaint regarding the issue via the RailMadad portal.
Alternatively, you can register a complaint by visiting the Station Master’s office.