Chennai: Southern Railway has installed 81 water vending machines across 37 railway stations in the past financial year to provide passengers access to safe, hygienic and affordable drinking water, particularly during summer travel. A release said the initiative is aimed at benefiting thousands of daily commuters and long-distance passengers travelling by suburban, mail and express services across the Chennai division.
Enhancing Passenger Convenience
Railways said the machines have been installed at stations to ensure easy access to purified drinking water at economical rates within station premises, improving passenger convenience and reducing dependence on packaged drinking water. Passengers can refill reusable bottles while travelling, promoting sustainable use and cutting plastic waste.
Locations and Pricing
The water vending machines have been installed at stations including Arakkonam, Thiruninravur, Pattabiram, Villivakkam, Jolarpettai, Katpadi Junction, Tambaram, Chennai Park, Chennai Fort, Washermanpet, Ponneri, Minjur, Tiruvottiyur, Chennai Central, Thirumayilai, Park Town, Chepauk, Moore Market Complex, Basin Bridge, Vyasarpadi Jeeva, Perambur, Korattur, Ambattur, Avadi, Tiruvallur and Tiruttani, among others. Railways said approved charges for water dispensed through the machines are Rs5 for half a litre, Rs8 for one litre, Rs12 for two litres and Rs25 for five litres.
Complaint Mechanism and Future Plans
Passengers have been advised to report complaints regarding overcharging through RailMadad or the QR code-based complaint system available at stations. Railways said the facility would be extended to more stations in future.
