The Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety shall prepare in each financial year an annual report giving a full account of the activities of the Commissioners during the financial year immediately preceding the financial year in which such report is prepared and forward, before such date as may be specified by the Central Government, copies thereof to the Central Government, and that Government shall cause that report to be laid, as soon as may be, after its receipt before each House of Parliament.
Simplified Explanation
Section 10 of the Railways Act, 1989 mandates that the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety prepare an annual report detailing the activities of the Commissioners of Railway Safety during the preceding financial year.
Key Points:
- Preparation of the Report:
- The Chief Commissioner is responsible for preparing an annual report on the activities carried out by the Commissioners during the immediately preceding financial year.
- Forwarding the Report:
- The Chief Commissioner must forward this report to the Central Government by a specified date set by the government.
- Laying the Report before Parliament:
- Once the Central Government receives the report, it must lay the report before both Houses of Parliament as soon as possible after receipt. This ensures that Parliament is informed of the activities and performance of the Railway Safety Commissioners.
- Content of the Report:
- The report should provide a comprehensive account of the work done by the Commissioners of Railway Safety in the specified year, which may include inspections, safety assessments, accident investigations, and other duties performed under the Act.
Implications:
- Accountability and Transparency:
- This provision ensures accountability and transparency in the functioning of the Railway Safety Commissioners. The annual report gives Parliament a clear picture of the safety efforts and issues within the railway system, and how the safety standards are being upheld.
- Government Oversight:
- The Central Government has the authority to review the report and act on any issues raised by the Commissioner of Railway Safety. It also allows Parliament to hold the government accountable for the functioning of the railway safety system.
Conclusion:
Section 10 ensures that the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety reports on the activities of the Commissioners, allowing for parliamentary oversight and ensuring that the railway safety framework remains transparent and accountable to the public.
