Power to Search, Inspect and Seizure

(1) Any person or officer of the Authority authorized in this behalf by the Authority may - (a) enter and inspect at any time in any premises where water is supplied by the Authority or any components of public water distribution system lies, if it appears necessary to him for ascertaining proper utilization of water supply or to verify if any work is being carried out in contravention of the provisions of this Act or an act has been or is being committed which is prohibited under the Act; (b) search, seize and remove all such devices, instruments or any other articles which has been, or is being, or is likely to be used for which is prohibited; (c) examine or seize any books of accounts, materials or documents, equipment or devices which in his opinion shall be useful as evidence for or relevant to, any proceedings in respect of an offence under section 10 and allow the person from whose custody such books of accounts, materials or documents, equipment or devices are seized to make copies thereof or take extracts therefrom in his presence. (2) The owner or occupant of the place or premises of search or any person on his behalf shall be allowed to remain present, as far as possible, during the search and a list of all the things seized in the course of such search shall be prepared and delivered to such occupant or person who shall sign the list. (3) The provisions of the code of criminal procedure, 1973 relating to search and seizure shall apply, to searches and seizures carried out under this sub-section. (4) where, during an inspection or search of any place or premises under sub-section (1), a user or a person is found to have committed an offence under section 10, the authorized officer may disconnect the water supply to such place or premises immediately without any notice.