The provisions of sections 21 and 22 shall apply to the opening of the following works if they form part of, or are directly connected with, a railway used for the public carriage of passengers and have been constructed subsequent to the giving of a report by the Commissioner under section 22, namely:–
(a) opening of additional lines of railway and deviation lines;
(b) opening of stations, junctions and level crossings;
(c) re-modelling of yards and re-building of bridges;
(d) introduction of electric traction; and
(e) any alteration or reconstruction materially affecting the structural character of any work to which the provisions of sections 21 and 22 apply or are extended by this section.
Simplified Explanation
Section 23 extends the provisions of Sections 21 and 22 to additional works that are part of or directly connected to a railway used for public carriage of passengers. These works, if they are constructed after the Commissioner’s inspection report, also require approval before they can be opened for public use.
Key Provisions:
- Extension to Certain Railway Works: The provisions in Sections 21 and 22, which deal with the sanctioning of railway openings, also apply to the following works:
- Opening of Additional Lines of Railway and Deviation Lines: If new lines or deviation tracks are constructed, they must be inspected and sanctioned before opening.
- Opening of Stations, Junctions, and Level Crossings: New stations, junctions, or level crossings must also undergo inspection and approval under these sections.
- Re-modelling of Yards and Re-building of Bridges: Any major changes to railway yards or the reconstruction of bridges require similar approval.
- Introduction of Electric Traction: When electric traction is introduced, which could involve changes to the infrastructure or safety systems, it must be sanctioned.
- Alteration or Reconstruction Affecting Structural Integrity: Any changes that materially affect the structural character of a railway work must be subject to the same formalities outlined in Sections 21 and 22.
Implications:
- Consistency in Safety and Compliance: This ensures that not just the opening of a railway line, but also any significant alterations or additions, undergo the same scrutiny to ensure they meet safety and structural standards.
- Comprehensive Oversight: The Central Government maintains oversight on all significant railway-related works after the Commissioner’s report, including changes to the existing infrastructure or the introduction of new technologies (like electric traction).
- Prevention of Unsafe Alterations: The requirement of approval ensures that any alterations or expansions to the railway network do not compromise safety or the public’s use of the system.
Conclusion:
Section 23 ensures that the same rigorous safety checks required for the opening of a railway line under Sections 21 and 22 apply to additional works or significant alterations, like new tracks, stations, or the introduction of electric traction. This is to maintain the integrity and safety of the railway network as it expands or evolves.
