The North Central Railway (NCR) administration has launched a major initiative to provide cold drinking water at almost all small stations across its jurisdiction. Previously restricted to large junctions, these facilities are now being expanded to ensure passenger comfort during the peak summer heat of 2026. This move follows a series of tenders for water coolers and chiller plants aimed at upgrading basic amenities for both travelers and railway staff.
What are the key features of this water supply initiative?
NCR is installing ISI-marked water coolers and advanced chiller plants at various medium and small-scale stations. In divisions like Prayagraj, chiller plants are being set up at stations to provide relief from rising temperatures. Additionally, starting April 15, 2026, the railway will collaborate with social organizations like the Red Cross and Lions Club to deliver cold water directly into general coaches of long-distance trains at major halts. This service will be available at important stations such as Kanpur Central, Aligarh, Agra, and Jhansi.
Which stations and divisions are covered under this project?
The project covers a wide range of stations across the NCR zone including the Prayagraj, Jhansi, and Agra divisions. Procurement tenders were finalized in early April 2026 for Gwalior and Jhansi to speed up the installation process. The administration aim to have all identified water coolers operational before the peak summer season begins.
| Division | Stations Involved |
|---|---|
| Prayagraj Division | Mirzapur, Fatehpur, Etawah, Aligarh, Tundla, Panki Dham, Chunar, Sonbhadra |
| Prayagraj Division (Cont.) | Meja Road, Naini, Subedarganj, Bharwari, Sirathu, Khaga, Bindki Road |
| Other Key Areas | Gwalior, Jhansi, Agra, Mathura, Shikohabad, Firozabad, Hathras Junction, Khurja |
NCR General Manager Naresh Pal Singh emphasized that this facility will benefit both passengers and the railway staff posted at these smaller locations. Chief Public Relations Officer Shashikant Tripathi stated that these actions will improve the overall passenger experience and update the basic infrastructure at stations that were previously overlooked.