Port officer to co-operate in manoeuvres for defence of port

A port officer shall, if required by an officer authorised by a general or special order of the Central Government, co-operate as directed by the officer, in carrying out manoeuvres related to the defence of the port in time of war, or for the security of the port against sub-conventional or non-traditional threats, or natural disasters, and, if necessary, temporarily make available the services of their staff, vessels, property, equipment or other resources: Provided that the Central Government shall bear the running expenses of vessels placed at the disposal of such officer in respect of the period during which they are so at his disposal, and be responsible for any damage thereto. Explanation.—For the purposes of this section, the expression “running expenses” shall include all expenses incurred in connection with the use of the vessels other than any charges for their hire or for the wages of the officers and crews of such vessels.