SR: All stations to have drinking water facilities

CHENNAI: The Southern Railway has announced that it would to provide clean drinking water to passengers at all stations in accordance with established norms.

A press release from the Southern Railway said that railway divisions have been directed to verify that all currently installed water coolers are operational and available to accommodate passenger demand.

They have also been told to investigate the possibility of deploying water tankers at critical stations to add to the current supply, and regularly check regularly and confirm availability of water across all platforms. They should also explore the possibility of collaboration with NGOs and community groups and to actively seek support from women’s self-help groups, and scouts and guides, for the distribution of cool drinking water, particularly near general class coaches.

In areas facing water scarcity, railway authorities will collaborate with municipal corporations/ governments and explore alternative water supply solutions. All divisions will set up a system for round-the-clock monitoring by railway staff to ensure consistent water availability and address any emerging issues promptly. Railways have also ensured that Rail Neer is available for passengers.

From January to March, the Southern Railway has made available more than 59 lakh 1-litre water bottles at stations for passengers and have supplied more than 40 lakh 1-litre bottles on board to more than 630 trains (passenger/ mail/express) running through the Southern Railway Zonal System daily.