Inspection of vessels and suspension of the licence if vessels are not seaworthy etc.

Any Magistrate or Police Officer, not below the rank of a sub-Inspector, or any officer specially empowered by the State Government in this be- half may board and inspect any vessel for the purpose of satisfying himself that the provisions of this Act, the rules, regulations and orders made thereunder and the conditions of the licence issued in respect of such vessel are duly observed. If such officer is of the opinion that the vessel is not seaworthy or is insufficiently equipped or is in such a condition that its plying may cause danger to human life or safety, he may suspend the licence issued in respect of such vessel and such vessel shall not thereafter be plied until the order suspending the licence has been cancelled or a fresh licence has been issued in respect of such vessel.