E. coli bacteria found in drinking water at some railway stations, CAG flags violation of norms

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has raised concerns over water quality standards after detecting E. coli bacteria in drinking water samples collected from water coolers at various railway stations. In a recent report titled ‘Passenger Amenities and Sanitation at Non-Suburban Railway Stations in Indian Railways’, the CAG revealed that E. coli was found in drinking water at eight out of 49 stations, located in Mumbai local stations, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Jharkhand.

The audit further found that inspections of water supply systems were not performed as per the prescribed frequency, leading to deficiencies in chlorine residual levels, total coliforms bacteria (including E. coli), and multiple parameters tested. Stations in Coimbatore, Palakkad Junction, Hyderabad, four Central Railway stations, and Madhupur also reported contamination.

The CAG's report revealed that bacteriological tests other than total coliforms were subpar at several stations, and chemical testing was not conducted at 179 stations across 11 railway zones. The auditor called for stricter adherence to drinking water quality protocols and more effective systems to ensure safe drinking water for passengers.