New Delhi, Sep 20 (IANS): The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Tuesday issued notice to the Railway Board over the weak and damaged tracks in Kerala.

Observing that the railway is the most preferred and affordable means of transportation for India's majority of population, the commission has said that it is the responsibility of the Railways that the tracks are well maintained not only to ensure timely travel but also to ensure the safety and security of the passengers.

According to the commission, there are at least 238 spots where the tracks are either damaged or weak due to which the trains have been ordered to run slower than at the normal speed.

"If the reports are correct, the situation is a serious threat to the passengers. The NHRC has issued a notice to the Chairman of Railway Board raising questions about the safety of the tracks in Kerala," a statement said from the commission.

The commission has given the Railway Board four weeks to submit an urgent report over the issue.