This Act provides for the construction and maintenance of irrigation works, and prescribes the basic water rates to be made applicable to various classes of irrigation systems for which water is to be supplied. The Act empowers Irrigation Officers to: enter and survey any lands adjacent to irrigation works or watercourses; enter upon any lands for the purpose of repairing damages or for preventing accidents; remove obstructions, caused by any person, of rivers, springs, streams or irrigation works; grant permits to any applicant to construct, extend, improve or alter watercourses; etc. The Act specifies obligations of owners of land receiving water from watercourses. The Act provides for various matters regarding the supply of water including applications for obtaining supply of water from irrigation works and duration of supply. The State Government shall regulate the use, diversion, collection or consumption of water from Government water sources for industrial and commercial purposes other than agriculture. The Act further provides for: the classification of irrigation works; levy of water rates and compulsory basic water rates; levy of water cess; offences and penalties; rule making powers of the State Government; etc.
India · 1959-01-01