Packaged Drinking Water Sold at Pune Railway Station Found Stored in Public Toilet, Authorities Respond

In a shocking incident reported by Pune Mirror, packaged drinking water sold at Pune Railway Station was found stored in a public toilet, putting passengers’ health at high risk. A man was seen jumping from the station compound towards the main road, handing over bottled drinking water packages to his accomplice inside the compound. He was spotted picking two packages from inside the ladies’ toilet, with others kept beside it.

When questioned about the storage of bottles in urinals, he explained that he feared the bottles would be stolen, so he kept the stock inside the toilet and brought it to the station as needed. Pune Mirror shared a video of the incident on ‘X’, formerly known as Twitter.

In response, the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Pune said, “We are deeply concerned about the recent incident involving the storage of packaged drinking water in a public toilet near Pune Railway Station. The toilet shown in the report is outside our premises, beyond our boundary wall, and not under our jurisdiction. We assure passengers that Rail Neer, available at our station, meets the highest safety and hygiene standards. We remain committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for all. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”

The DRM further elaborated on the actions taken:

“We are taking this matter seriously and have taken immediate action. Four such unauthorized vendors selling products other than Rail Neer have been apprehended. We are investigating further and implementing strict measures to prevent such incidents. Railway Protection Force (RPF) Pune has taken cognizance of the video and acted swiftly against the offender involved in unauthorized vending.

This vendor is a repeat offender with previous cases registered against him. RPF Pune is continuously taking action against unauthorized vendors. On 12.06.2024, in coordination with on-duty TTE staff, action was taken against four unauthorized vendors, who were booked under the Railway Act. Inconvenience caused is deeply regretted. Taking strict action, four unauthorized vendors have been caught by the competent authority, and strict administrative action will be taken against them.”

The DRM concluded with an appeal to passengers:

“We appeal to all railway passengers to refrain from purchasing unbranded water from unauthorized vendors. Please ensure your safety by buying only Rail Neer available at the station. Thank you for your cooperation.”