The National Human Rights Commission has issued a notice to the Railways over safety issues related to railway tracks in Kerala, and sought a reply within four weeks.
The notice has been sent to the Chairman, Railway Board on the basis of media reports.
"Reportedly, there are at least 238 spots, where the tracks are either damaged or weak due to which the Railways have ordered to run trains slower than the normal speed," the NHRC said.
The Commission said the Railway Board Chairman has been asked to submit an urgent report in the matter within four weeks.
The Commission has observed that the issue, brought to its notice by Jacob Punnoose, Special Rapporteur, NHRC, is "serious", it said in a statement.
"Railway is the most preferred and affordable means of transportation for India's majority of population. It is, therefore, imperative that railway tracks are well-maintained not only to ensure timely travel but also to ensure the safety and security of the passengers," it said.
If the reports are correct, the situation is a serious threat to the right to life of the passengers, it said.
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