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Railways Boost Water Quality After Audit
21 Sep
Summary
- New filtration systems will be installed at 20,000 points.
- Old storage tanks are being identified for phased replacement.
- Water samples from four key stations tested satisfactory.
Central Railway has initiated a swift overhaul of its drinking water quality, filtration, testing, and monitoring systems at stations and on trains. This action is a direct response to observations made in a recent Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report.
The Railway Minister and senior officials have directed immediate corrective actions across the entire Indian Railways network. Central Railway is prioritizing the installation of new filtration systems, including water coolers and quality monitoring arrangements, at approximately 20,000 locations. Implementation is being expedited at passenger interface points like stations and coaching depots.
Furthermore, the railway is identifying and phasing out worn-out storage tanks. Rigorous water quality testing is being enforced at both source and outlet points. Regular cleaning and maintenance of storage tanks are now standard procedures. This initiative addresses specific CAG concerns regarding water samples from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Bhiwandi Road, Kalyan, and Lonavala stations collected during 2023-24.
A special testing drive confirmed that water samples from these four stations passed physical, chemical, and bacteriological tests, showing no E. coli or other contamination. Additional steps include checking for leaks in piping systems, installing mesh covers on vents, cleaning coolers, and replacing faulty taps. E. coli testing kits are now available for periodic checks.
