The Indian Railways has launched a special drive to ensure safe and clean drinking water for passengers across the network. The action plan involves frequent inspection, maintenance, and repair of the entire drinking-water system, alongside water-quality testing at both sources and points of consumption.
On August 24, 2026, Indian Railways initiated a cleanliness drive focused on maintaining the hygiene of its drinking-water system. This drive is an essential aspect of a broader action plan designed to strengthen the management of drinking-water quality across the railway network. The action plan emphasizes frequent inspection and maintenance of the entire drinking-water system, alongside water-quality testing at both sources and points of consumption.
During the drive, Zonal Railways will undertake comprehensive inspections of water sources, treatment and filtration plants, underground and overhead tanks, PVC tanks, water booths, taps, and water dispensing points. All drinking-water tanks will be drained, desludged, scrubbed, and disinfected. Measures will also be taken to ensure tight covers and appropriate protection of vents and overflow points from birds, animals, and algae.
The drive will also identify deficiencies requiring corrective action. Damaged tanks, pipelines, and filters will be repaired or replaced, wherever required, while ensuring that there is no cross-connection between potable and non-potable water systems. All piping forming part of the drinking-water circuit will also be checked for leakages, and necessary corrective measures taken to prevent water wastage.
Special attention will be given to locations where hand pumps and borewells are being used for extraction of drinking water. Zonal Railways will ensure that water from such systems remains free from contamination and is safe for potable use.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
