New Delhi, May 12 (PTI) Complaints of rainwater seeping through coach roofs surge on the Railways’ grievance redressal system during the monsoon, a Railway Ministry committee constituted to suggest maintenance facilities at proposed Mega Coaching Depots said in its report, recommending the setting up of dedicated facilities at workshops to address the issue.
The three-member committee has given detailed recommendations on building standard maintenance infrastructure facilities in Mega Coaching Depots to improve passenger amenities and experience.
The committee observed that 'Rail Madad' -- the Railways’ grievance redressal system -- receives a significant number of complaints about leakage from coach roofs during the monsoon season.
Of late, several reports have emerged raising the problem during the rainy season. Last year, a video of water pouring down from the roof of one of the coaches of a Vande Bharat train went viral on social media amid severe criticism from various quarters. Another video of water coming down from the roof vent of a coach of the Jabalpur–Nizamuddin Express in 2024 also drew widespread criticism over poor passenger amenities.
“To address this issue effectively, dedicated facilities should be established at workshops and depots for the systematic inspection of roof and window leakages,” the committee said.
It added, “Implementing such measures will enhance passenger comfort, prevent water-related damage to coach interiors, and ensure reliable operations even in adverse weather conditions.”
Railway staff engaged in onboard housekeeping services also endorsed the view that a roof water leakage testing facility should be available for coaches to ensure passenger comfort and overall convenience.
They further noted that water leakage from the roof can lead to damp interiors, damaged upholstery, and compromised electrical systems, creating an uncomfortable and unsafe travel environment.
Officials said that, at present, ceiling leakages are checked as part of the overall maintenance of coaches during scheduled inspections and workshop maintenance. However, with the fleet size and operational complexity increasing, state-of-the-art facilities are needed to ensure timely upkeep, quick turnaround, and enhanced safety.
“By implementing a dedicated testing facility, Railways can proactively identify and rectify water ingress inside coaches, maintaining dry and well-protected interiors. This not only enhances passenger comfort but also reduces maintenance costs and operational disruptions,” the committee said.
The committee has submitted a 50-page “Report on Requirements of Facilities for Mega Coaching Depots”, in which it stated that Mega Coaching Depots are expected to have holdings of more than 1,500 coaches.
“Only LHB, trainsets and Amrit Bharat rakes will be based in Mega Coaching Depots,” it said.
“The proposed Mega Coaching Depot will be self-sufficient in handling all activities related to train maintenance, sick marking, provision of spare coaches, shunting, etc," it added.
It also stated that a Depot Management System will be developed for handling all rake and coach movements inside the depot.