21 October,2026 07:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Western Railway said safe drinking water was an essential passenger amenity. Pic/WR
Western Railway on Wednesday said that it has reported a 100 per cent pass rate in more than 18,600 drinking water quality tests conducted across its railway stations and railway colonies between September 1 and October 20, 2026.
According to an official statement, Western Railway conducted 15,936 residual chlorine tests and 2,674 bacteriological tests during the period. All tests passed, indicating that the samples met the requirements assessed under the two testing categories.
The monitoring drive was undertaken to ensure access to safe drinking water for passengers, railway employees and their families living in railway colonies.
Of the 15,936 residual chlorine tests conducted, all 15,936 passed. Residual chlorine testing helps assess whether water disinfection is effective.
Similarly, all 2,674 bacteriological tests passed. These tests are used to assess the microbiological safety of drinking water and identify potential contamination risks.
Together, the two types of testing help railway authorities monitor water quality and identify problems that could pose a risk to public health.
Western Railway said safe drinking water was an essential passenger amenity, as thousands of travellers, including children, senior citizens and daily commuters, depend on station water facilities during their journeys.
Access to clean drinking water is important for preventing waterborne illnesses and ensuring a safe and comfortable travel experience, the railway administration said.
The monitoring programme also covers railway colonies, where employees and their families depend on the water supply for their daily needs.
Western Railway said its Medical Department would continue regular water quality surveillance, laboratory testing and supervision to maintain hygiene standards.
The department will also coordinate with other departments and take corrective measures whenever required to address potential water quality issues.
The railway administration said its responsibility extended beyond operating trains to protecting the health and well-being of passengers and railway employees.
Last month, Central Railway's Mumbai Division had launched a special drive to inspect and improve drinking water facilities across its stations, colonies and workplaces following the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on sanitation facilities and passenger amenities at non-suburban railway stations, an official statement said.
The drive was carried out in compliance with Railway Board directions and covered drinking water sources, filtration plants, underground and overhead tanks, PVC tanks, water booths, taps and dispensing points.
According to Central Railway, a total of 2,967 locations were covered during the special drive.
During the inspections, 410 deficiencies were recorded, of which 365 have been rectified. The remaining 45 are under work, Central Railway said.
The division has 2,913 water tanks across platforms, station premises, colonies and office premises. Of these, 1,753 tanks were cleaned between August 20 and September 22.
Tight covers and mesh on vents and overflows were provided at 1,716 locations as part of the drive.
