Railways launch drive amid allegations of impure Rail Neer water

Indian Railways has launched a comprehensive inspection drive for drinking water and catering facilities across its network, prompted by social media allegations of impurities in its bottled water brand, Rail Neer. Western Railway has taken swift action, closing 39 catering units in the Mumbai Central division over the past 10 days due to hygiene lapses. The railway authorities are also conducting large-scale checks on water-vending machines and water distribution points (pyaus) at stations.

The controversy erupted after social media posts claimed the railway's bottled water brand contained impurities. Sources within the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) indicated that legal action is being initiated against an influencer for spreading these allegations. This situation coincides with a broader 10-day inspection mandate from the Railway Board for all zonal railways, including Central and Western Railways, to scrutinize water coolers and purification systems.

Inspections will cover the cleaning of water storage tanks, checks for rust and leaks, proper fitting of lids and gaskets, and repair of pipeline leakages. The functionality of UV and RO systems will also be verified, with a focus on timely filter replacements. "Our teams, using test-o-meters and other prescribed equipment, have begun testing the quality of water served to passengers at food stalls and even through the vending machines," stated a WR official. "Also, if water coolers are found to be damaged, poorly maintained or unhygienic, they will be immediately removed and replaced wherever necessary. After the 10-day inspection, we will prepare a detailed report."

Beyond water quality, WR and CR are also assessing food stalls for food quality, cleanliness, and hygienic serving practices. Between August 16 and August 24, Western Railway shut down 39 food, catering, and juice stalls for various violations, demonstrating a firm stance on maintaining standards across its services.

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Our teams, using test-o-meters and other prescribed equipment, have begun testing the quality of water served to passengers at food stalls and even through the vending machines. Also, if water coolers are found to be damaged, poorly maintained or unhygienic, they will be immediately removed and replaced wherever necessary. After the 10-day inspection, we will prepare a detailed report.