(1) For the purpose of facilitating co-operation between local authorities in the discharge of their functions under this chapter, the Government may, with the consent 47 of the local authorities concerned, by order, constitute a Joint Water Board for two or more local authorities with powers to construct and maintain water works and to take all other measures for the provision and improvement of water supply in the areas of the local authorities concerned.
(2) An order made under sub-section (1) may specify the powers and duties of the Board and also provide for all matters incidental, consequential or supplementary thereto.
(3) The Government may, after giving notice to the Joint Water Board and to every local authority concerned, by a subsequent order amend or revoke an order made under sub-section (1); and any such subsequent order may make provision for the adjustment of the accounts of the Board, the apportionment of its liabilities among the local authorities and for all incidental, consequential and supplementary matters.
(4) The expenses incurred by a Joint Water Board shall be apportioned between the local authorities concerned in such manner as the Government may direct.
(5) Any dispute or difference between the local authorities or any of them and the Joint Water Board shall be referred to the Government, whose decision thereon shall be binding on all parties.
(6) The provisions of all the foregoing sections shall apply in relation to a Joint Water Board constituted under this section as they apply in relation to a local authority.
Pollution of water