Railways Orders Immediate Action on Drinking Water Quality After CAG Report

The Railways has ordered a series of immediate measures to improve drinking water quality across its network following observations in the CAG report. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with the Chairman and CEO of the Railway Board and other senior officials, conducted a day-long review of the issue and directed officials to take corrective steps on priority.

As part of the measures, a new "Tank to Tap" water filtration and monitoring system will be installed at around 20,000 locations, including water coolers, across the railway network. The Railways will also replace water storage tanks wherever required.

Officials have been directed to ensure regular testing of water quality at both source and outlet points. The Railways will also introduce centralised monitoring and accountability, along with scheduled cleaning and maintenance of storage tanks.

The issue has been placed among the Railways' top priorities and will be monitored directly at the Board level. Water quality and progress reports will also be released periodically to ensure greater transparency.

The measures are part of a wider effort by the Railways to address the observations raised by the CAG and improve basic passenger facilities and the overall travel experience.