By PUNE — In a major move to protect passengers, the Pune Railway Division has taken strict action against stations vendors who were charging extra for packaged drinking water. Over the last three months, from October 2025 to December 2025, officials have collected ₹91,000 in fines from various stalls across the division.
The crackdown follows several complaints from travellers who noticed that water bottles, especially the official Rail Neer brand, were being sold at prices higher than the government- approved rate. Railway authorities have sent a clear message that states overcharging will not be tolerated.
Where the Violations Happened?
The enforcement drive was busiest in October, where officials recovered ₹50,000 in fines. This was followed by ₹35,000 in November and ₹6,000 in December. Most of the complaints came from Platform No. 1 and the station waiting halls, which are often the most crowded areas.
In one specific case, a vendor was fined ₹20,000 not just for overcharging, but also for behaving rudely toward a passenger. In other instances, vendors were caught selling Rail Neer for ₹20, even though the official price is much lower.
The New Prices: What You Should Pay
A major reason for the confusion is a recent price cut. Because of a reduction in GST, Indian Railways lowered the price of Rail Neer in late 2025. Many vendors tried to hide this change to make a quick profit.
Always check the price before you pay:
1-litre Rail Neer Bottle: The official price is ₹14 (reduced from ₹15)
500 ml Rail Neer Bottle: The official price is ₹9 (reduced from ₹10)
Some vendors were also caught selling unauthorized private brands like Arogyam or Elvish at high prices instead of the approved Rail Neer. These unauthorized brands are not allowed to be sold on Platforms if Rail Neer is available.
How Passengers Fought Back
The most successful fines were the result of passengers using the RailMadad system. RailMadad is an official app and website where you can report problems in real-time.
Divisional Commercial Manager Hemant Kumar Behera stated that continuous monitoring is now the priority. He urged travellers to always check the MRP (Maximum Retail Price) printed on the bottle. If a vendor asks for even one rupee extra, it is a violation of railway rules.
Tips for a Stress- Free Commute
To avoid being cheated at the station, keep these simple things in mind:
- Ask for a Bill: Every vendor is required to provide a printed receipt. If they refuse, it is a red flag.
- Report Instantly: If a vendor overcharges or behaves badly or rudely, call the integrated railway helpline at 139.
- Check the Brand: Ensure you are buying Rail Neer or a brand specifically approved by IRCTC.
- Pay Digitally: Using UPI (like GPay or PhonePe) often makes it harder for vendors to hide overcharging, as the amount is recorded.
The Pune Division has promised that these surprise inspections will continue. By standing up for their rights and reporting unfair prices, passengers are helping make the lifeline of the city more honest and affordable for everyone.
Pune Railway Division fined station vendors ₹91,000 between October and December 2025 for overcharging passengers on Rail Neer bottles. Officials cracked down after complaints revealed sales above the revised MRP following a GST-based price cut. Authorities have urged passengers to check printed prices, demand receipts, and report violations through RailMadad or helpline 139 to ensure fair pricing.
