Obligations of owners in respect of works affecting safety of canals.

48. Obligations of owners in respect of works affecting safety of canals. (1) Every owner whose tank, well, pond, spring pond, talaparige or other reservoir is situated above any irrigation work, shall maintain the bunds and surplussing arrangements of such tank, well, pond, spring pond, talaparige or reservoir in a safe and efficient condition. (2) If, in the opinion of the Irrigation Officer, such bunds or surplussing arrangements of the works referred to in sub-section (1) are not in a fit condition and are likely to endanger the irrigation works below, then the owner concerned shall be served with a notice to bring such bunds or surplussing arrangements to a reasonably fit condition, in such manner and within such time as may be specified in the notice. (3) If the said owner fails to comply within the time specified or does repairs which in the opinion of the Irrigation Officer are unsatisfactory, the Irrigation Officer may carry out the necessary repairs and the cost thereof shall be recovered from the said owner as an arrear of land revenue. (4) From any order of the Irrigation officer under this section an appeal shall lie within one month from the date of communication of the order, to the Deputy Commissioner, whose decision thereon shall be final.