Chennai: After setting up two cold water dispensing units for passengers at cheap rates, a new pay and use toilet and an AC waiting lounge are coming up at Central railway station.
Ten days back, two water-dispensing units – vending machines for refilling as well as bottled water - were set up on platforms 4 and 5, In the next two weeks, six more water vending machines are to come up. Overall, Chennai Central will have 12 such water vending units, work on which has been given to IRCTC, according to a Southern Railway official.
The vending machines are functional from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Water is available from Rs 1 to Rs 20, without container (refilling purpose) and from Rs 2 to Rs 25,
with container, depending on the quantity sought. “Earlier, the rates for refilling 1 litre was Rs 1 and bottle price Rs 3. Maybe the charges have been
increased for maintenance. Anyway, the price now is also affordable for most commuters, so it is a welcome move,” said Anwar MP, a frequent commuter.
“The AC waiting lounge has been commissioned and the work will be completed in 15 days. There will be separate seating areas for men and women, and toilets for both. It will have three LED televisions,” according to a senior official at the
station.
