It is 'Don't pay up? Will shut down' for Western Railway (WR) and BMC. In a major crackdown, WR has decided to shut down nearly 378 canteen stalls over non-payment of water bills amounting to Rs 10 crore. The defaulting canteen stalls will be shut down in a phased manner. Approximately 37 stalls between Churchgate and Virar have already been sealed.

The drive has started with WR already sealing about six canteens at Marine Lines station last week. In fact, the defaulting has had an effect on the railways, because authorities themselves owe the BMC water bills to the tune of Rs 100 crore. Whatever the issue, it is time that stalls on railway platforms are regulated and all problems are solved, so that these run in a smooth manner with the dues paid on time. One has to see that the stalls comply with safety norms, especially those selling foodstuff.