Indian Railways has launched a special cleanliness drive across its network focused on cleaning and disinfection of drinking-water tanks and filtration systems to ensure availability of safe drinking water for passengers. The initiative is part of a broader action plan for strengthening drinking-water quality management that emphasizes frequent inspection and maintenance of the entire system, along with water-quality testing at both source and point of consumption.
During the drive, Zonal Railways will conduct comprehensive inspections of water sources, treatment plants, underground and overhead tanks, PVC tanks, water booths, taps, and dispensing points. All drinking-water tanks will be drained, desludged, scrubbed, and disinfected, with measures taken to ensure tight covers and protection from contamination. The drive will identify deficiencies requiring corrective action, including repair or replacement of damaged tanks, pipelines, and filters, while ensuring no cross-connection between potable and non-potable systems.
Special attention will be given to locations using hand pumps and borewells to ensure water remains free from contamination. The Railway Board has advised comprehensive inspection of water coolers and purification systems, with thorough cleaning of water tanks, addressing leakages, and ensuring 100% hygiene around dispensing areas. UV/RO purification systems will be checked for proper functioning and provided where required, with scheduled maintenance, servicing, and replacement of filter candles and components.
The prescribed measures also apply to Water Vending Machines to ensure drinking water meets safety standards. Officials will undertake physical, chemical, and bacteriological testing of water samples from identified locations, including daily residual-chlorine monitoring with immediate re-chlorination where required.
Zonal Railways will monitor and expedite works already sanctioned for replacement and construction of new tanks, with fresh sanctions processed where required. Suitable filtration and purification systems for different situations are being worked out to prevent contamination at various stages. Station-wise details of deficiencies and corrective actions will be submitted for systematic monitoring and time-bound resolution. The action plan extends similar measures to drinking-water infrastructure in Railway colonies and workplaces, ensuring safe water for both passengers and personnel.