A division bench of justice Naresh Patil and justice MS Sonak asked the IRCTC to file reply to the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the circular issued by the railways, banning private company packaged drinking water at stalls on railway stations.
The Bombay High Court on Wednesday suggested the IRCTC to provide 500ml Rail Neer packaged drinking water bottles for suburban railway commuters as it is easy to carry. At the moment the IRCTC provides 1 litre bottle.
A division bench of justice Naresh Patil and justice MS Sonak asked the IRCTC to file reply to the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the circular issued by the railways, banning private company packaged drinking water at stalls on railway stations.
The PIL filed by Mumbai resident LS Vohra through his advocate Rui Rodriguez relied on media reports that the bottle water was not available at few stations and thereby causing hardships. Further, it also stated that not making available other company bottles lead to a monopoly situation.
However, the railways defended its decision by stating that earlier there was a shortage but now the supply has been smooth and the project is being implemented in a phased manner and only at those
stations where the supply of Rail Neer is possible. Moreover, if a passenger wants a particular company bottle of water then this option is available on long distance trains where passengers can pre-book their meals.
The bench said: "Quality and hygiene should not be compromised. IRCTC should consider providing small bottles and ensure that bottles are easily available for passengers. In the summer season when the demand is high there should not be any shortfall and if that is anticipated then private company bottle of water be allowed for a limited period."
Earlier, the high court while hearing a different petition filed by Indian Railways Caterers Association upheld circulars issued by the Railways, directing contractors and caterers having stalls on platforms and railway stations to only stock and sell 'Rail Neer' — packaged drinking water supplied by IRCTC. This order has now been challenged in the Supreme Court by the association.
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