CAG Flags Water Testing Gap at 28 Central Railway Stations
The Comptroller and Auditor General has flagged serious gaps in water quality monitoring at Central Railway stations. An audit found that 28 stations under Central Railway lack the multi-parameter field testing kits required to check drinking water quality as per Railway Board guidelines.
Water samples from four Central Railway stations—CSMT, Kalyan, Bhiwandi Road and Lonavala—tested positive for E-Coli bacteria, which is associated with faecal contamination and can cause serious health issues. The CAG report noted that 436 stations across 15 railway zones lacked required testing kits, preventing regular twice-yearly water quality checks as mandated.
The audit also found that of 512 stations inspected nationwide, 458 lacked one or more basic passenger amenities including drinking water facilities, toilets, seating and shelters. The CAG has recommended that Railways ensure regular water testing and comprehensive examination of drinking water supplies as per prescribed protocols.
