New Delhi, Aug 18: Indian Railways is strengthening its drinking-water systems across the country after an audit raised concerns about water quality and gaps in basic passenger amenities at several stations.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has directed officials to introduce a “Tank to Tap” filtration and monitoring system at around 20,000 locations, covering water coolers and other drinking-water points used by passengers.
The initiative will focus on improving the entire water-supply chain, from storage and filtration to the final point of use. Ageing water tanks will be replaced where necessary, while cleaning, maintenance and regular quality checks will be tightened.
The audit detected E. coli in water-cooler samples at eight railway stations, highlighting the need for stronger monitoring of facilities used by thousands of passengers every day. Tests at some platform taps also pointed to water-quality concerns.
In response, the Railways plans to strengthen testing at both water sources and outlet points. Implementation will be monitored by the Railway Board, with greater emphasis on timely corrective action and accountability.
The audit also found wider gaps in essential passenger facilities. Of the 512 non-suburban stations examined, 458 had deficiencies in at least one basic amenity, including drinking-water facilities, toilets and urinals.
For passengers, particularly families, elderly travellers and those undertaking long journeys, access to clean drinking water is an essential part of a safe and comfortable railway experience.
The proposed overhaul is therefore aimed at improving everyday passenger services as much as upgrading infrastructure. A reliable system of filtration, testing and maintenance can help ensure that water remains safe from the storage tank to the tap.
The initiative reflects a broader effort by the Railways to strengthen basic amenities while continuing its wider programme of modernisation across the network.