A plea seeking better passenger facilities at railway stations has been filed in the Supreme Court. It seeks time-bound measures to ensure safe drinking water, clean toilets, emergency medical care and accessibility.
The petition has also sought comprehensive and periodic testing of drinking water sources. It wants authorities to immediately discontinue contaminated sources and provide safe alternatives until they meet prescribed standards.
According to the Supreme Court’s November 16 cause list, the matter is scheduled before a bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant. Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana will also be part of the bench.
Plea seeks regular testing of railway station drinking water
The petition has asked authorities to test all passenger drinking water sources periodically. The testing should cover E. coli, total coliforms and other bacteriological and chemical parameters.
It has also sought immediate action against unsafe water sources. Authorities should provide alternative drinking water until they complete corrective work and certify the sources as safe.
Furthermore, the plea seeks improvements in sanitation, cleanliness and waste management. It also calls for functional toilets, accessible facilities and emergency medical services.
The petition said these measures were necessary to protect passengers’ health, safety and dignity.
CAG report flagged contamination and unhygienic washrooms
The plea cited a Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) report tabled in Parliament in August. The report flagged E. coli bacteria in drinking water from water coolers at several railway stations.
It also highlighted unhygienic conditions in station washrooms.
Consequently, the petition has sought implementation of the applicable CAG recommendations within defined timelines. It has called for station-wise corrective action and a transparent monitoring mechanism.
Petition seeks accountability for delays
The plea has sought accountability from officials responsible for addressing deficiencies. It said authorities should fix responsibility where officers fail to act or cause unjustified delays.
It also called for appropriate action against those responsible, in accordance with law.
Meanwhile, the petition seeks immediate interim measures while the case remains pending. These include addressing deficiencies involving drinking water, sanitation, toilets and waste management.
It has also sought improvements in emergency medical preparedness to protect passengers from health and safety risks.
