The Public Accounts Committee (PAC), led by K.C. Venugopal, has expressed serious concerns over ongoing deficiencies in passenger amenities and sanitation at railway stations, despite repeated observations and assurances from Indian Railways to improve conditions.
The issue was addressed during the PAC’s review of the Comptroller and Auditor General’s (CAG) Report No. 31 of 2026 on passenger amenities and sanitation at stations. According to the CAG audit, 491 out of 512 stations inspected—nearly 96%—had bio-toilets that were either deficient or non-functional.
Bio-toilets, presented by the Railways as a key step towards improving sanitation, showing widespread deficiencies is a significant concern. The PAC highlighted that shortcomings in passenger amenities have persisted for years, with similar issues reportedly unaddressed since 2007.
The committee is concerned about the gap between the Railways’ commitments to upgrade passenger facilities and the actual condition of amenities at stations. The findings reveal ongoing problems in implementing, operating, and maintaining basic sanitation infrastructure, directly impacting passenger comfort and hygiene. After its review, the PAC has demanded accountability from the Railway Ministry and directed it to submit a detailed response within one month explaining the shortcomings and the remedial actions being taken.
This intervention underscores the need for effective implementation and regular maintenance of passenger amenities, especially sanitation, beyond merely announcing or installing infrastructure. The CAG findings and PAC scrutiny emphasize the necessity for sustained monitoring and corrective measures to ensure promised improvements result in functional amenities for passengers.
