The Commissioner shall–
(a) inspect any railway with a view to determine whether it is fit to be opened for the public carriage of passengers and report thereon to the Central Government as required by or under this Act;
(b) make such periodical or other inspections of any railway or of any rolling stock used thereon as the Central Government may direct;
(c) make an inquiry under this Act into the cause of any accident on a railway; and
(d) discharge such other duties as are conferred on him by or under this Act.
Simplified Explanation
Section 6 of the Railways Act, 1989 outlines the key duties and responsibilities of the Commissioner of Railway Safety.
Key Duties of the Commissioner:
- Inspection for Safety Fitness:
- The Commissioner is responsible for inspecting any railway to determine whether it is safe and fit to be opened for the public carriage of passengers. The Commissioner must then report their findings to the Central Government, as required by the provisions of the Act.
- Periodical Inspections:
- The Commissioner is required to conduct periodic or other inspections of railways and rolling stock (such as trains, carriages, and wagons) as directed by the Central Government. These inspections ensure that the equipment and infrastructure meet the required safety standards.
- Inquiry into Accidents:
- In the event of a railway accident, the Commissioner is tasked with conducting an inquiry to investigate the cause of the accident. This inquiry is crucial for understanding the factors leading to the accident and implementing measures to prevent future occurrences.
- Additional Duties:
- The Commissioner may also be assigned other duties related to railway safety as stipulated by or under the Act.
Conclusion:
Section 6 places significant responsibilities on the Commissioner of Railway Safety, making them central to ensuring railway safety. Their duties include inspecting railways for public use, carrying out regular checks on railway equipment, investigating accidents, and fulfilling other safety-related roles as directed by the Central Government.
