The power of the panchayat in the preparation and execution of

schemes related to water supply and sewerage works. - (1) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Kerala Water supply and Sewerage Act, 1986 (Act 14 of 1986), the respective panchayat shall have the right and power to prepare and implement water supply or sewerage scheme within the area of a panchayat. (2)When the Water supply schemes and sewerage schemes are prepared in accordance with sub-section (1) and if it is beneficial to the residents of more than one village panchayat area, it shall be prepared and implemented by the concerned Block Panchayat and if it is beneficial to the residents of more than one block panchayats such schemes shall be prepared and implemented by the district panchayat concerned; Provided that the provisions of this section shall not affect the preparation and implementation of such schemes by more than one panchayat among themselves. (3)The panchayats preparing and implementing the water supply and sewerage schemes in accordance with sub-section (1) may collect water charges and sewerage service charges from the beneficiaries in the manner prescribed.]