New Delhi: Indian Railways has launched a nationwide special cleanliness drive to clean and disinfect drinking-water tanks, filters and other water infrastructure at railway stations to ensure passengers have access to safe and hygienic drinking water.
Under the initiative, zonal railways will inspect water sources, treatment plants, filtration systems, underground and overhead tanks, water booths, taps and dispensing points. Tanks will be drained, cleaned, scrubbed and disinfected, while covers, vents and overflow points will be checked to prevent contamination.
The Railway Board has directed officials to identify and rectify deficiencies, including damaged tanks, pipelines and filters. Leakages will be repaired and cross-connections between potable and non-potable water systems will be checked.
Special attention will be given to borewells and hand pumps, ensuring water drawn from these sources is safe for drinking.
Water coolers and purification systems, including UV and RO units, will undergo inspection and scheduled maintenance. Filter components will be replaced wherever necessary. Similar hygiene and quality checks will be carried out at water vending machines.
Water samples will undergo physical, chemical and bacteriological testing at various points, including sources, treatment outlets, tanks, coolers and taps. Daily residual-chlorine levels will also be monitored, with immediate corrective action where required.
Zonal railways have been asked to submit station-wise reports on deficiencies and action taken, enabling time-bound monitoring and rectification.
The initiative will also cover drinking-water infrastructure in railway colonies and workplaces, extending the focus on safe water beyond passenger areas.
