CAG Flags Gaps In Basic Passenger Amenities At Major Railway Stations; Over 89% Surveyed Stations Found Deficient

Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reveals widespread gaps in basic passenger amenities at major Indian railway stations, affecting over 89% of surveyed locations. The deficiencies include inadequate drinking water taps, fans, toilets, seating, dustbins, signage, and electronic train indicator boards. The audit, covering stations from 2019-20 to 2023-24, examined facilities at non-suburban Group-1 stations, which handle high volumes of passengers and revenue.

Despite detailed norms and timelines set by the Railway Board since 1952, many stations continue to fall short of essential amenities. While 18 out of 512 surveyed stations met standards for seven basic facilities, 458 stations were deficient in at least nine facilities. Even some stations that met standards for some facilities had shortcomings in others, indicating gaps in maintenance and monitoring.

The report emphasizes the urgent need for corrective action to ensure passengers access to fundamental requirements, such as drinking water, toilets, and seating, at major terminals and other stations across India.