Purified Drinking Water Machines Non-Functional at MRTS Stations, Passengers Face Hardship
Passengers travelling on the Beach–Velachery MRTS elevated rail corridor are facing inconvenience as the purified drinking water vending machines installed by the Railways are not functioning at several stations.
The MRTS stretch has 17 stations, and vending machines were earlier installed at major stations to provide low-cost purified drinking water. Commuters could purchase water using coins or mobile payment apps, making the service both affordable and convenient.
Previously, water was sold at subsidised rates — ₹3 for 300 ml, ₹5 for 500 ml, ₹8 for one litre, ₹12 for two litres, and ₹25 for five litres. The initiative had received good public response from daily commuters and long-distance travellers.
However, at present, the machines are lying unused at all stations, forcing passengers to purchase bottled water at higher prices from station shops. Many commuters have expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the non-functioning units defeat the purpose of providing affordable drinking water facilities.
Passengers have urged Railway authorities to restore the vending machines immediately or set up temporary stalls selling railway-approved drinking water bottles until the automated system becomes operational again.
