New Delhi: The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has flagged serious concerns over cleanliness and sanitation in Indian Railways, revealing that more than one lakh complaints were lodged in 2022-23 regarding the non-availability of water in train toilets and washbasins. Of these, 33,937 complaints—around 34%—were not resolved within the stipulated timeframe.
The findings are part of a performance audit on “Cleanliness and Sanitation in Long-Distance Trains” covering the period 2018-19 to 2022-23. The report, tabled in Parliament on Wednesday, underlined the impact of poor hygiene on passenger health, safety, and travel experience.
Passenger surveys showed wide variation in satisfaction levels with bio-toilets—above 50% in five zones but below 10% in two zones. Frequent water shortages were linked to insufficient filling or failure to utilise watering stations. While the Railway Board approved “Quick Watering Arrangements” (QWA) in 2017, the audit found delays at 28 of 109 stations due to fund shortages and contractor issues.
The audit also flagged underutilisation of Automatic Coach Washing Plants, with a third of the inspected facilities lying idle due to breakdowns. Over 1.32 lakh coaches had to be cleaned externally through contracts. Similarly, Clean Train Station (CTS) schemes were found ineffective, with shortfalls in manpower, machinery use, and proper toilet cleaning during train halts.
On financial management, the report highlighted major discrepancies: actual expenditure on cleanliness often exceeded sanctioned budgets, with North Central Railway overshooting its “coach sanitation” budget by 147%. At the same time, several zones underutilised funds for linen management due to disruptions during COVID-19.
Passenger feedback on On-Board Housekeeping Services (OBHS) showed satisfaction ranging between 54% and 84% in most zones, while Northern and North Central Railways scored above 95%. The CAG, however, lauded the Western Railway’s Kankaria Depot laundry facility, noting its efficiency and eco-friendly operations.
The audit concluded that while efforts have been made to improve sanitation, systemic gaps in planning, execution, and monitoring continue to affect passenger comfort and hygiene standards on Indian Railways.
