HRCSL to probe train accidents

SATURDAY, 29 JUNE 2013 

The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) has asked the Railway Department and the Transport Ministry to immediately submit a report regarding the unprotected railway crossings island-wide, Human Rights Commissioner Dr. Prathibha Mahanamahewa said today.

The Commissioner said the HRCSL would intervene in the matter after considering several fatal incidents that took place throughout the country, and he further said the Commission would make recommendations to the authorities after having a consultative meeting with the relevant parties.

“As we are aware since 2012 up to now, monetary allocation amounting to one billion was given to the relevant authorities in constructing unsafe railway gates. Therefore, 200 railway gates were to put up a protective barrier.

We called for a report from the General Manager of the Railways Department and the Secretary to the Ministry of Transport asking what step had been taken by them to minimise accidents at unprotected railway crossings. As state institutions, they have a liability and responsibility to minimise the incidents”, he said.  He said that there were about 750 unsafe railway gates island-wide. (Lakmal Sooriyagoda)

Editorial - Rail gates: government must get onto the fast track

SATURDAY, 29 JUNE 2013 

Evidence that the Rajapaksa regime’s lightning express development may be on the wrong track was given bloody substance with two tragedies on unprotected railway crossings this week.

HRCSL to Probe Train Accidents by nelvely