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WARNING: Before You Take a Sip at a Railway Station, Think Twice
New Delhi : Millions of passengers rely on drinking-water facilities at railway stations every day, but a recent CAG audit has raised serious concerns over water quality and basic hygiene. Water samples collected during the audit reportedly showed the presence of E. coli and coliform bacteria at some locations, highlighting the risks associated with contaminated water. The findings have triggered fresh questions over the safety of drinking water available to passengers and the need for regular testing and stricter monitoring across railway stations.
A Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report has raised serious concerns over the quality of drinking water and basic passenger amenities at several Indian railway stations. Water samples collected from selected stations reportedly showed the presence of E. coli and coliform bacteria, raising concerns about possible contamination. Certain strains of E. coli can cause food poisoning, diarrhoea and, in severe cases, kidney-related complications.
According to the audit, water samples were collected from platform taps and water coolers during inspections covering 512 railway stations, while significant shortcomings in passenger facilities were also identified. The report said 458 of the 512 stations—around 89%—did not meet the prescribed minimum standards for passenger amenities.
Deficiencies were reported in toilets, urinals, drinking-water taps and other facilities, with several major stations also facing gaps in basic amenities. The CAG has recommended regular testing of railway drinking water to ensure safety and quality.
Following the report, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reportedly reviewed the issue with officials, with the Railways planning to introduce ‘Tank to Tap’ water filtration systems at around 20,000 locations, replace old water tanks and strengthen regular monitoring. The findings have renewed the focus on ensuring that millions of railway passengers have access to clean, safe and reliable drinking water during their journeys.
