After the introduction of vending units at suburban railway station, passengers are relaxed and free without wanting to take cold water bottles or buy the Rs 20 water bottles at kiosks present there.
At these water kiosks selling water, there are also refilling containers that are comparatively lower in price. These machines are functional between 6.30 am and 9.30 am. These bottles are sold for rates between Re 1 and Rs 20 without container and Rs 2 and Rs 25 with container based on the quantity of water purchased. One of the frequent commuters to Mambalam says she feels very comfortable with the facility as it is easily available at any time of the day at affordable rate.
Many times, the taps and coolers do not function properly. It is not practically feasible for the people to spend Rs 20 to Rs 25 each and every day while travelling. However, at these kiosks, we can get water at affordable rates.
These vendors will be paying lease rental fee. IRCTC and Southern Railway shall share the same. Vendors setting up the unit will bear the water and electricity cost.
These vending machines have water cans and not ground water. IRCTC officials often inspect these machines and water facility, says a vendor at Guindy.