Mumbai Central Division will receive 97 new Water Vending Machines

The Mumbai Central Division will receive 97 new Water Vending Machines (WVM) thanks to Western Railway. Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) had previously installed 99 of these machines, however, the majority have now been removed, and those that were inoperable are currently being done so as well.

 

"The WR has decided to install 97 new Water Vending Machines at various stations of Mumbai Central Division for the convenience and comfort of passengers," a WR official stated. The official added that the WR had invited tenders for the installation and operation of these machines on a stand-alone basis at various stations of Mumbai Central Division in two clusters, namely Cluster I consists of stations between Churchgate and Borivali and Cluster II consists of stations between Dahisar and Andheri.

 

These machines will be under contract for five years. A representative responded, "It depends on the answer to the tender," when asked when the WVMs will be installed. The decision to install the new water vending machine at stations has been well received by passengers. Sandesh Shah, a 56-year-old resident of Borivali, said, "These machines will be advantageous to travellers as people need pure drinking water when travelling."

 

He added that it will also allow passengers to acquire clean water at a much lower price. Currently, travellers using WR suburban stations must pay Rs 15 for a one-liter bottle. Manmohan Sharma, a 42-year-old resident of Andheri, agreed, saying that while drinking water is a basic need for travellers, most are afraid to use station drinking faucets following the introduction of Covid. He continued, "The Railways must install WVMs at every exit and entry point of stations."

 

 

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