Public Utilities Act (Chapter 261).

This Public Utilities Act (Chapter 261) is an Act to reconstitute the Public Utilities Board and for matters connected therewith. The Act consists of 74 Sections divided into 7 Parts: Part I Preliminary; Part II Reconstitution, Functions, Duties and Powers of Board; Part III Water Undertaking of Board; Part IV Supply of Piped Water Suitable for Drinking; Part V Offences; Part VI Transfer to Board of Property, Liabilities and Employees; Part VII Miscellaneous.
The Act provides for the reconstitution, power, functions and duties of the Public Utilities Board (PUB). PUB, as a comprehensive water authority, integrates sewerage & drainage departments and manages reservoirs, water works, rivers, drainage system, water reclamation plants, and sewerage system. Main functions of he PUB are: (a) provide, construct and maintain such catchment areas, reservoirs and other works as may be required or necessary for the collection, supply and use of water for public and private purposes; (b) manage and work the water installations of the Board; (c) secure and provide an adequate supply of water at reasonable prices; (d) regulate the supply of piped water suitable for drinking; (e) promote water conservation; (f) act as an agent of the Government in the construction, management and maintenance of: public sewerage systems and storm water drainage systems, drains and drainage reserves; etc.
In Part III, water tariffs for supply of water set at level allowing cost recovery, including capital costs, and waterborne tax are stipulated. The waterborne tax shall be paid to the Board for the discharge of the Board’s functions in relation to used water (including sewage, waste matter and effluent) and sewerage. Part IIIA deals with che compensation for temporary occupation of premises and owner-initiated acquisition, Part IIIB provides for prohibitions against carrying out of regulated works, etc. and application and grant of plumber’s licence. Part IV copes with the supply of water for human consumption. Section 50 provides for offences and penalties of making unauthorised connections, contaminating water, wasting water, wilfully interfere with or disrupt supply of water.