Assessment of loss or damage

(1) Any officer, who has entered, searched or inspected any premises and has reason to believe that an offence is committed under clause (v), (vi) or (vii) of sub-section (1) of section 10, shall prepare a report along with evidences gathered and submit the same with his findings to the Assessing Officer (hereinafter referred to as "Assessing Officer") for the assessment of loss or damage suffered. (2) Subject to such criteria and the manner as may be prescribed, the Assessing Officer shall assess the loss or damage caused to the Authority on account of unauthorized or excess drawl of water or use of water for purpose other than for which connection was granted, on the basis of the report referred to in sub-section (1) of this section or after an enquiry, as may be required, and pass an order of recovery for such loss or damages suffered by the Authority. (3) The Assessment Officer shall have regard to the following factors while passing an order under sub-section (2):- (a) quantity of water drawn in unauthorized manner, (b) duration of such activity, (c) charge or rate of water supplied, (d) quality of water, (e) usage of water, and (f) any other factors relevant for determination of the cost of water drawn in unauthorized. (4) The Assessing Officer shall be appointed by the Authority in such manner as may be prescribed. (5) The amount assessed under sub-section (2) shall be recoverable in the same manner as an arrear of land revenue.