Why Doesn't Indian Railways Have a 24-Hour Pharmacy at Every Major Railway Station?

The question of why Indian Railways does not have a 24-hour pharmacy at every major railway station is a valid one, especially when considering the significant number of travelers and the diverse range of health-related needs they might have during their journeys.

One instance that comes to mind is during a visit to the Bengaluru City Railway Station a few years ago, where I noticed a pharmacy near the main entrance. This prompted the curiosity to understand why such facilities are not available in all major stations.

Potential Issues and Solutions

The decision not to have 24-hour pharmacies at every major railway station can be attributed to several factors, including cost, administrative complexity, and the nature of the railway network itself.

One of the main issues is the sheer scale of the Indian Railway network. With over 8,000 stations and millions of passengers traveling daily, implementing 24-hour pharmacies at every station would be a massive undertaking. It would require a significant investment in infrastructure, staff, and continuous operational support.

Administrative Challenges

The administrative overhead involved in managing such a vast network of pharmacies is substantial. Ensuring the quality and safety of medications, adhering to health and safety regulations, and guaranteeing consistent and accessible service across all stations present a logistical challenge.

Moreover, the use of public transportation like railway stations often involves a diverse group of travelers with varying health conditions and needs. Providing a standardized 24-hour pharmacy service across all stations might not always meet the varied and specific demands of travelers.

Alternative Solutions

Given the complex nature of the railway network and the administrative challenges, it is essential to explore alternative solutions that can address the need for medical assistance during unexpected situations.

For example, the Indian Railway Administration has an established system to manage medical emergencies. If a passenger encounters a medical emergency, they can call the Railway Doctor at the station. This system, which includes on-duty Station Masters (SMs) and medical staff, ensures prompt and efficient medical care.

However, the accessibility of this system during peak travel times and in remote stations can be a concern. Enhancing this system with additional support and better communication channels could help in addressing the need for timely medical assistance.

Future Prospects and Improvements

The administration of Indian Railways may consider adopting a phased approach to implementing 24-hour pharmacies in major stations based on demand and feasibility studies.

Phased Implementation Plan

1. **Identify High-Need Stations:** A risk assessment to identify stations with higher demand for medical assistance due to frequent travelers and health emergencies.

2. **Pilot Projects:** Conduct pilot projects in these identified stations to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-benefit of introducing 24-hour pharmacies.

3. **Expand Based on Success:** If the pilot projects show positive outcomes, consider expanding the service to more stations based on demand and locational factors.

4. **Technology Integration:** Leverage technology to enhance communication and coordination between stations, doctors, and passengers. Digital health apps and emergency response systems can play a crucial role in this regard.

Technology-Driven Solutions

Another approach could be to integrate technology-driven solutions that provide temporary medical assistance, such as telemedicine services. This can help bridge the gap between urgent medical needs and immediate in-person healthcare in remote or less frequented stations.

The development of emergency response systems that can quickly connect passengers with medical professionals, either through teleconsultations or emergency services, can significantly improve the health outcomes for travelers.

Conclusion

While the current system for managing medical emergencies on Indian Railways is a step in the right direction, the ultimate goal should be to provide comprehensive and efficient healthcare services to all travelers, regardless of the location.

With a strategic approach that combines phased implementation, technology-driven solutions, and administrative improvements, Indian Railways can move closer to providing the necessary medical support that passengers rightfully deserve.