PAC To Question Railways Over CAG-Flagged Water Contamination, Sanitation Gaps And Passenger Facility Deficiencies In Mumbai

On September 23, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is set to question officials from the Railway Ministry, Central Railway, and Western Railway in Mumbai, focusing on significant gaps in passenger amenities and sanitation at railway stations. This inquiry follows a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) audit that uncovered serious deficiencies. Among the issues highlighted were E-coli contamination in water samples from drinking fountains and coolers at several Central Railway stations in the Mumbai area.

Railway officials have been instructed to provide written responses to the committee's questions. The informal discussion, scheduled to begin at 11:30 am and last for approximately 45 minutes, will be based on C&AG Report No. 31 of 2026. The committee has requested detailed information regarding the frequency of water testing, who is responsible for certifying the safety of the water, and the actions taken when test results do not meet the required standards.

In addition to concerns about water quality, the PAC will also scrutinize the overall condition of basic passenger amenities. Out of the 512 stations audited, 458 were found lacking in one or more of the Minimum Essential Amenities stipulated by the Railway Board. The committee seeks explanations for these deficiencies, information on the corrective actions implemented following the audit, and details on who is accountable for these shortcomings.