Free ORS, chilled water distributed at railway stations amid heatwave

Patna: Railway commercial employees distributed free chilled drinking water and ‘sharbats’ to passengers at Patna Junction on Thursday, offering relief amid the prevailing heatwave.Danapur senior divisional commercial manager (DCM) Abhinav Siddarth said a dedicated team led by chief ticket inspector Rajesh Kumar, along with Manish Kumar and Vijay Kumar, has been working round the clock to provide cold water and ORS packets to passengers in need. The initiative has been particularly beneficial for senior citizens, children and long-distance travellers.Similar arrangements have been made at other key stations, including Rajendra Nagar Terminal, Danapur, Patliputra Junction and Ara, where free refreshments are being provided to help passengers cope with extreme temperatures.Railway officials have advised travellers to avoid prolonged exposure to heat and follow necessary precautions. Free stay in air-conditioned waiting halls has also been arranged, while nominal charges apply for certain additional amenities. Passengers can use the RailOne app or contact helpline 139 in case of emergencies.RPF inspector Shankar Ajay Patel said the effort has been widely appreciated, with many passengers acknowledging the staff’s support during the ongoing heatwave.