• In British Era, Consulting Engineers were appointed by Govt. for control over Private Companies. When Government undertook construction of railways, they were designated as Government Inspectors.
• In 1883, their position was statutorily recognised.
• Power of Safety controlling authority under the IR Act 1890 remained with Railway Board.
• Based on recommendation of Pacific locomotive Committee in 1939, set up after Bihta disaster, Railway Inspectorate was separated from Railway Board by Govt. in 1941.
• Post of Chief Government Inspector of Railways, through whom Government Inspectors would report, was created.
• Inspectorate was placed under the Department of Communication. From 1942, Inspectorate was transferred to Post & Air department and thereafter under whichever Ministry that held the portfolio of Civil Aviation.
• From 1979 designation was changed from CRS to CCRS and Addl CRS to CRS.
• Commissioners are recruited from officers of Indian Railways on absorption basis . They are assisted by Deputy Commissioners posted on deputation from Ministry of Railways .

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