Comprehensive Maintenance Plan Targets Tanks, Filters, and UV Systems

The latest action plan outlined by Indian Railways sets an ambitious target to upgrade and monitor every element of the drinking‑water infrastructure across the network. Zonal divisions will inspect water sources, treatment facilities, storage tanks – whether underground or elevated – PVC containers, and all dispensing units. Each tank will be fully drained, sludge removed, walls scrubbed and subsequently sterilised. Protective caps will be fastened securely, and vent and overflow openings will be fitted with barriers to deter birds, rodents and algae.

Deficiencies uncovered during inspections will trigger immediate corrective measures. Faulty tanks, broken pipelines and ineffective filters will either be repaired on site or replaced altogether. The plan also emphasizes strict segregation of potable and non‑potable water circuits to eliminate any risk of cross‑contamination. All pipelines will undergo leak detection, and where leaks are found, repair crews will intervene to stop water loss.

Special emphasis is placed on hand‑pumps and bore‑wells, with the requirement that water drawn from these sources meets the same safety benchmarks as piped water. Water coolers will receive thorough cleaning of their tanks, and any leakage in the cooler’s pipework will be promptly sealed. UV and RO purification devices will be tested for operational efficiency, with new units installed where gaps are identified. Maintenance schedules will be enforced to replace filter candles and other critical parts on time, and where older systems are deemed inadequate, fresh UV/RO plants will be commissioned in mission mode.

The board also extends the quality‑monitoring framework to water vending machines, mandating regular physical, chemical and bacteriological testing, along with daily residual‑chlorine checks. Any deviation will trigger immediate corrective action, including recolouring or supplemental chlorination.