Railways orders urgent action on water quality after CAG finds E. coli

The Railways has ordered immediate measures to improve drinking water quality after a CAG audit found E. coli in samples at nine stations, including Coimbatore, Palakkad, Hyderabad, CSMT, and Howrah. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with senior officials, conducted a review and directed corrective steps on priority.

Times Now reports that a new 'Tank to Tap' filtration and monitoring system will be installed at about 20,000 locations. Water storage tanks will be replaced where needed, and regular testing at source and outlet points will be enforced. Centralised monitoring and periodic progress reports will ensure transparency.

Business Today adds that the audit also found 458 of 512 stations failed to meet Minimum Essential Amenities norms, including missing latrines, urinals, and water taps. The CAG has directed the Railways to ensure compliance with drinking water testing protocols and basic facility standards. The issue is now a Board-level priority.