NEW DELHI, AUG 16 (PTI): Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday ordered immediate corrective measures to ensure safe drinking water at railway stations after a CAG report flagged harmful bacteria, including E.coli, in water coolers at several stations.
Vaishnaw, along with senior officials, conducted a review and ordered installation of water-filtration systems, replacement of water tanks and regular water-quality testing, according to the Railway Ministry.
The CAG audit of more than 512 stations found widespread deficiencies in passenger amenities, including poor water quality and unhygienic washrooms.
Tests of drinking water samples from 49 stations in eight zones in 2022-23 and 56 stations in nine zones in 2023-24 detected total coliform bacteria, including E.coli.
As part of the corrective measures, a “tank-to-tap” filtration and monitoring system will be installed at around 20,000 locations, including water coolers.
The Railways will also replace water tanks, enforce regular testing at source and outlet points, and introduce centralised monitoring and scheduled tank cleaning.
The Railway Board said water safety would be monitored directly at the Board level, with progress and quality reports published periodically.
Monday, August 17, 2026