It has been observed that unlike Indian Railways stations where drinking water facilities are available, such arrangements are not present in the Delhi Metro. If passengers get thirsty during their metro journey, they have to buy water because free water is not provided in the metro. Many people believe that at least drinking water should be available free of cost in a public place like a station, but the question arises whether it is necessary for the metro administration to make such an arrangement?
The main reason for the lack of drinking water is that according to the rules, providing free water at metro stations is not mandatory; it is entirely up to the decision of the Metro Corporation. In 2023, a question was raised in the Rajya Sabha regarding the amenities provided to passengers in the Delhi Metro, which also included the issue of free drinking water. The government was asked why free water and toilet facilities are not provided in the metro. In this regard, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs clarified in the Rajya Sabha that the right to provide free drinking water and toilet facilities falls under the respective metro rail administration, and there is no rule that mandates the availability of free water at every Delhi Metro station.
However, this does not mean that there is no provision for drinking water for passengers. According to the answer given in Parliament, DMRC has established a paid drinking water system through shops, kiosks, and water ATMs at the stations, meaning that a fee may have to be paid for bottled water or water from water ATMs.
Despite this, it is not the case that someone will not get water if they do not have money. DMRC has instructed all station staff to provide drinking water to passengers upon request. Therefore, if a passenger needs water, they can ask the station staff. It is also worth noting that although free water is not available in the Delhi Metro, water facilities are available in the Lucknow and Jaipur metros.