Vinod Bhat
New Delhi, August 16: The Ministry of Railways has ordered immediate corrective measures to ensure safe drinking water for passengers across the railway network following observations in the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on drinking water quality.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with the Chairman and CEO of the Railway Board and senior officials, conducted a detailed review of the issue and directed railway authorities to take immediate action.
As part of the measures, a new “Tank to Tap” water filtration and monitoring system will be installed at around 20,000 locations across the railway network, including water coolers.
The Railways has also ordered the replacement of water storage tanks wherever required and directed strict compliance with regular water quality testing at both source and outlet points.
The measures also include centralised monitoring and accountability, besides scheduled cleaning and maintenance of water storage tanks.
The Railways said safe drinking water has been accorded top priority and the progress of corrective measures will be monitored directly at the Board level. Water quality reports and progress updates will also be published periodically to ensure transparency.
The initiative forms part of a broader drive by the Railways to address observations raised by the CAG and improve passenger amenities and the overall travel experience.