No railway shall be opened for the public carriage of passengers until the Central Government has, by order, sanctioned the opening thereof for that purpose.
Simplified Explanation
Section 21 of the Railways Act, 1989 mandates that no railway shall be opened for the public carriage of passengers without prior approval from the Central Government.
Key Provisions:
- Opening of Railway: Before a railway is allowed to carry passengers, it must receive sanction from the Central Government.
- Public Carriage of Passengers: This sanction is specifically for the purpose of allowing the railway to operate for the transportation of passengers.
Implications:
- Safety and Compliance: The requirement for Central Government sanction ensures that the railway is fully prepared, compliant with all necessary safety standards, and fit for public use.
- Regulatory Oversight: This provision places the responsibility on the government to assess and approve the readiness of the railway system before it is allowed to operate commercially.
- Public Interest: The Central Government’s oversight ensures that the interests of passengers, including safety and infrastructure readiness, are prioritized.
Conclusion:
Section 21 ensures that no railway opens to the public until the Central Government has evaluated and granted permission, ensuring compliance with safety standards and readiness for public use.
