Chapter II Constitution and Powers of Board

(1) Subject to the provisions of this Act and any rules made thereunder, the Board shall have the same powers as are vested in civil courts under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, when trying a suit and in particular in respect of the following matters:-

(a) joining any necessary or proper parties;

(b) summoning and enforcing the attendance of any persons and examining him on oath;

(c) compelling the production of documents;

(d) issuing commissions for the examination of witnesses; and

(e) proof of facts by affidavits.

(2) Subject to the provisions of this Act and any rules made thereunder, the Board may direct any of its members to inspect any site or to examine any witnesses. On the inspection of such site by a member and the examination by him of witnesses, a report shall be made to the Board which shall be evidence in the case.

Where any period is fixed or granted by the Board for the doing of any act prescribed or allowed by this Act, the Board may, in its discretion, from time to time, extend such period, even though the period originally fixed or granted may have expired.