What Happened

Indian Railways, under the Ministry of Railways, has launched a special cleanliness drive. This initiative focuses on the comprehensive cleaning and disinfection of drinking water tanks and filtration systems throughout the railway network. The drive aims to ensure the continuous availability of safe and clean drinking water for passengers at stations.

Key Facts

  • The special drive is part of a broader action plan to strengthen drinking water quality management.
  • Zonal Railways are advised to undertake comprehensive inspections of water sources, treatment plants, tanks (underground, overhead, PVC), water booths, taps, and dispensing points.
  • All drinking water tanks will be drained, desludged, scrubbed, and disinfected.
  • Measures include ensuring tight covers and protection for vents and overflow points from birds, animals, and algae.
  • Damaged tanks, pipelines, and filters are to be repaired or replaced, ensuring no cross-connection between potable and non-potable water systems.
  • Water coolers and purification systems will undergo cleaning, leakage repair, and hygiene checks, with UV/RO systems checked and provided as needed.
  • Physical, chemical, and bacteriological testing of water samples will occur at identified locations, including sources, post-treatment outlets, tanks, coolers, vending machines, and taps.
  • Daily residual chlorine monitoring will be undertaken, with immediate re-chlorination or corrective action where necessary.
  • The action plan also extends to drinking water infrastructure in Railway colonies and workplaces.
  • Zonal Railways will submit station-wise details of identified deficiencies and corrective actions taken for systematic monitoring.

Why It Matters

This initiative directly addresses the quality and safety of drinking water available to passengers and railway personnel. By strengthening inspection, maintenance, and testing mechanisms, it establishes a more robust system for water quality management across a vast public network.

What To Watch

Monitor the implementation of station-wise deficiency rectification and the effectiveness of corrective actions. The progress on works sanctioned for new or replacement tanks and the consistent application of cleaning and testing protocols will be key indicators.