69,294 bottles of Packaged Drinking Water seized in “Operation Thirst”

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi  : To curb the menace of unauthorised Packaged Drinking Water (PDW)  on Railway premises, an all India drive named “Operation Thirst” was launched on July 8 & 9, 2019, on the direction of DG/RPF, Railway Board, New Delhi, under which all the Zonal Principal Chief Security Commissioners (PCSC) were asked to crackdown on these unauthorised activities. Almost all major stations of the Indian Railway were covered during this operation.

During the drive, 1,371 persons were arrested for selling of packaged drinking water of unauthorised brands under different sections i.e. 144 & 153 of Rly. Act. Altogether 69,294 bottles of PDW have been seized and fine of Rs. 6,80,855 was realised from these offenders. Four Pantry car managers involved in selling of the same were also arrested. Stalls on platforms were also found selling packaged drinking water bottle of brands not authorised by Railways. Further enquiry into these cases are being made to reach the origin of this activity. The special drive will be followed by continuous action by PCSCs concerned on this issue.

During peak summer season there is heavy demand for drinking water. Due to closure of schools & festive/marriage season, the number of passenger travelling by railways also increases and so the demand of drinking water, according to a PIB release.