PASSENGERS FACE HARDSHIPS DUE TO LACK OF COLD WATER AND SHADE

10-JUNE-ENG 7

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA-------------------------After Patna Junction and Danapur, Ara Junction holds a significant position in terms of revenue generation for the East Central Railway and is designated as an 'A-category' station. Despite this, the basic amenities provided to passengers here are constantly being questioned. Amidst the scorching heat of June, the most pressing issue is the drinking water supply. Thousands of passengers travel through Ara Junction daily. As soon as a train stops at the platform, passengers in General and Sleeper classes rush towards the taps and water booths with their bottles. However, they complain of receiving warm and allegedly contaminated water instead of cold, clean water, leading to widespread dissatisfaction. Passengers report that most taps on platforms 1 through 4 are dispensing warm water. The lack of cold water during this intense heat is causing significant distress. Many passengers have also questioned the water quality, deeming it unfit for consumption. Due to the absence of adequate cold drinking water arrangements by the railways, a large number of passengers are forced to buy bottled water available on the platforms. Passengers allege that they often have to purchase water from brands other than the authorized 'Rail Neer' because they are compelled to secure cold water by any means to find relief from the heat. There is a severe lack of roofing (sheds) on platforms 1 through 3; passengers are forced to wait for trains under the open sky in this heat, leading to illness, yet railway officials remain indifferent. Responding to this, Ara Junction Station Manager N.K. Rai stated that the railways are continuously working to improve passenger amenities. He mentioned that arrangements for cold water have been made on platforms 1 through 4 in light of the summer heat. According to him, there is no shortage of drinking water at the station, and necessary facilities are being provided to passengers. However, the passengers' complaints and the station administration's claims present contrasting pictures. In such a situation, it is essential for the Railway Department to inspect the arrangements at the ground level and ensure the availability of clean and cold drinking water for passengers.