The Indian Railways has come under scrutiny and faced allegations of corruption following a recent Right to Information (RTI) query that uncovered significant expenses related to rodent control. The Lucknow division of the Northern Railways reportedly spent ₹69.5 lakh between 2020 and 2022 on rat-catching activities, leading to criticism and questions about the efficiency of these expenditures.
In response to an RTI application filed by activist Chandrashekhar Gaur, the Lucknow division of the Northern Railways disclosed that it had spent approximately ₹69.5 lakh over two years for rodent control. The data revealed that 168 rats were caught during this period, resulting in an average cost of around ₹41,000 per rat.
The revelation of high expenses for rat-catching activities has led to allegations of corruption within the Indian Railways. Critics argue that such costs are excessive and raise questions about the effectiveness and transparency of these expenditures.
Rajya Sabha MP Randeep Singh Surjewala, a member of the Indian National Congress, criticised the Railways’ spending on rat control. He highlighted the significant expenditure per rat caught and linked it to broader issues of inflation and economic challenges facing the country.
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The Lucknow division of the Northern Railway issued a clarification in response to the allegations. They explained that the expenses mentioned in the RTI response encompass various pest control measures, including preventing cockroach infestations, disinfecting train coaches to deter rodents, and conducting fogging activities. The Railways emphasised that the work is primarily preventive rather than focused on actively catching rodents.
The RTI query also sought information on the value of damage caused by rats, but the Railways did not provide specific details. They stated that no assessment of damage had been conducted.
The RTI disclosure of high expenses related to rodent control has sparked controversy and allegations of corruption within the Indian Railways. Critics argue that such costs need to be justified and transparent, considering the economic challenges faced by the country. The Railways, on the other hand, maintain that the expenditures are primarily preventive and aimed at safeguarding their infrastructure and services.
